by Translator: Pokka; Author: 我本纯洁 (I Am Pure); Licensed From: Migu
...
The one saying that was a genius at the bottom of the Jiao Luan List. After seeing Xiang Shaoyun suppress his breakthrough opportunity, the genius lost all interest in fighting. He turned and left without hesitation.
Inwardly, he cursed, I should just focus on preserving my current ranking. There is no need for me to become someone else's stepping stone.
He was clear that Xiang Shaoyun's combat prowess was not to be underestimated. Even though Xiang Shaoyun couldn't fully unleash the strength of all nine stars at the same time due to cultivating nine powers, Xiang Shaoyun was still not an opponent the genius could confidently take down.
On the ring, after suppressing his cultivation base, Xiang Shaoyun shouted, "Who's next?"
Not only had his condition returned to his optimal state, it seemed to have even grown. His imposing aura was at its peak, scaring many potential challengers away. After waiting for a bit, Xiang Shaoyun left the ring in disappointment. Since he had just suppressed his cultivation base, it was also best for him to not fight again. Otherwise, his cultivation base would probably start stirring for a breakthrough yet again.
He did not intend to advance anytime soon. He wanted to deepen his comprehension of the Dragon Ascension Realm to allow himself to step into the realm naturally. That would be a much more perfect method of advancement. As Xiang Shaoyun left the ring, the crowd split and opened a path for him. Their eyes were filled with reverence. Evidently, his strength had obtained their acknowledgment.
After leaving the ring, he did not immediately return to his villa. Rather, he went to the Book Pavilion again. This time, he still remained on the first floor. For now, he had no lack of battle techniques. What he lacked was more experience and comprehension. Thus, he started going through the books related to what he wanted to learn.
After a while, he found an ancient scroll titled "Serene Clearheart Mantra", an ordinary Buddhist scroll. Without thinking much, he took the scroll and started reading it. He did not have the habit of picking the books he read. Instead, he would memorize everything he could before deciding what to do with the knowledge. But after reading the Serene Clearheart Mantra, he found that he couldn't shift his attention away.
The mantra was capable of helping one calm one's mind. The incantations were incredibly ingenious and wondrous, as they were capable of entering the depths of his heart and washing away his worries, forcing him into a calm and serene state. He felt like he was lying down below a gentle sun, bathing in the warm rays of light that kept his mind at a peaceful and comfortable state.
His nine stars started emanating numerous mild rays of light, interweaving with each other within his body. They slowly spread throughout him to nourish his meridians, acupoints, inner organs, and so on. Under the nourishment, he recovered from the injuries and exhaustion he had accumulated in his recent battles. His body even grew tougher.
After an unknown amount of time, Xiang Shaoyun finally woke up. When he noticed the changes within him, he was overjoyed. "This Serene Clearheart Mantra actually has such an effect?"
After thinking about it for a bit, he confirmed that the Serene Clearheart Mantra possessed a supportive effect, but it wasn't something he could use all the time. However, after a massive battle or when encountering an intense activity, he could use the mantra to calm his heart and enhance his concentration.
After putting the Serene Clearheart Mantra back on the shelf, he moved on to a different book. The book contained important information all cultivators should know, and it comprehensively introduced each of the different cultivation realms and their key points.
For example, a detailed introduction about the Dragon Ascension Realm, which Xiang Shaoyun was about to advance into, could be found in this book.
Dragon Ascension Realm, transforming energy into a dragon, using the spine as the dragon, nourishing the body with the dragon, transforming into the dragon.
First, one needed to transform one's astral energy into draconic aura. Then, one needed to use one's spine as the starting point to allow the draconic aura to nourish one's bones, inner organs, and body to give one's essence, vigor, and soul the might and vitality of a dragon.
Not only was the draconic aura related to one's astral energy, but it was also related to one's soul power. Only by perfectly combining the two would one be able to enter the Soul Foundation Realm.
It was also noted that excellent control over one's astral energy was required to completely transform into a dragon, soar beyond the skies, and become an Emperor.
Chapter 601: Princess Huang Xiaoyue
Xiang Shaoyun only left the Book Pavilion after seven days, spending a considerable number of contribution points doing so. During the seven days, he had not cultivated at all. Even so, his cultivation base never stopped growing. It had now reached 97 percent completion. He no longer suppressed his cultivation base, intending to let his advancement come naturally. It would be too excessive to continue suppressing it at this point.
When Xiang Shaoyun walked out of the Book Pavilion and was about to leave with his jade plate, the old man guarding the pavilion said, "Kid, this old man has a question. Why are you reading all those books everyone else regards as useless? Why don't you read some books about battle techniques and cultivation methods?"
The old man had seen too many geniuses. Almost all of them would head straight to the second or third floor to read some battle techniques and cultivation methods. Very few would remain on the first floor to read the books many considered useless.
Xiang Shaoyun replied honestly, "For others, they might be useless. But they are very useful to me."
"I see. Do you mind telling me more?" asked the old man.
Xiang Shaoyun hesitated slightly before saying, "Every single book that has been preserved over the generations has its own worth. That is why there is a saying that in a book, there is a house of gold; in a book, there is a shade of jade. We are martial cultivators, and cultivating the body should naturally be our focus. But I also believe that cultivating the mind is essential as well. That is the worth of the so-called useless books. Everyone should cultivate the mind. Only with a strong body and mind will one be able to handle and face different situations appropriately. One's frame of mind will also expand, allowing one to reach greater heights in life and face all tribulations with a smile on one's face."
A look of astonishment flashed past the old man's eyes, and he said, "Not bad at all. A youngster capable of understanding all that, like you, is very rare these days. Any single book is an accumulation of experience left behind by our predecessors. It allows one to expand one's horizon and learn new things. It is extremely important for the cultivation of one's body and mind. It is good that you realize that. I will give you a 50 percent discount when reading on the first floor from now on."
"Thank you, elder!" Xiang Shaoyun was overjoyed.
He had spent a total of 10 days reading on the first floor, spending 60,000 contribution points doing so. With his current wealth, that wasn't much. However, it would still be better if he could cut costs. He had not expected that the old man would actually give him such a benefit. It was quite a joyful event. The old man then waved his hand, telling Xiang Shaoyun to leave. Xiang Shaoyun did as told and left after giving the old man a salute.
Looking at Xiang Shaoyun's departing back, the old man sighed, "A youngster with such a frame of mind is very rare nowadays."
He then shut his eyes again and continued lounging there while gently waving his feather fan. As for Xiang Shaoyun, he went straight to his villa instead of the ring. He planned to enter seclusion and look for the best timing to break through into the Dragon Ascension Realm. Before he reached his villa, however, someone blocked his path.
"You're Xiang Shaoyun?" a sassy girl's voice rang out.
Xiang Shaoyun looked at the young lady in astonishment. She had her hands on her hips, and he replied, "Yes, I am Xiang Shaoyun. What do you need, little sister?"
The young lady be
fore him wore no makeup on her face. She had delicate, proportionate facial features, and on her head sat an incredibly luxurious crown covered in bright, shiny pearls.
She wore a golden outfit that glimmered with a bright luster. With one look, it was obvious her outfit wasn't a simple outfit. She had an hourglass figure and a pair of slender legs. A portion of her legs was uncovered, revealing her fair and tender skin, which looked exceedingly enchanting and alluring.
She was about 15 or 16 years old. At such a young age, it was already clear that she was a stunning beauty that would grow into someone with remarkable looks. From what she wore, it was obvious she had an impressive background. Further proving that point was the unruly and willful temperament she exuded.
"Who are you calling little sister? I am Huang Xiaoyue, a princess of the Dusk Dynasty!" said the young lady furiously.
Xiang Shaoyun blanked out. Inwardly, he sighed, No wonder something seems off with the surroundings. It turns out this girl has such an impressive background?
The Dusk Dynasty was one of the seven strongest dynasties in the Central Region. Each dynasty was comparable in strength with the ancient clans. In fact, they were even better at ruling their respective territories than the ancient clans.
Xiang Shaoyun wasn't familiar with the name Huang Xiaoyue, but he was very familiar with the name Huang Tianji. He was a prince of the Dusk Dynasty, also one of the academy's eight freaks, a top-10 expert on the Dragon Phoenix List.
That prince had not fought much, but nobody dared to doubt his strength. In fact, he was strong enough that nobody was certain who would win if he fought the Smiling Swordsman Baili Yixiao, who was ranked first on the list. Just that alone proved that Huang Tianji did not have an undeserved reputation. Huang Xiaoyue was most likely his little sister.
"And what brings you here, Your Highness?" Xiang Shaoyun asked.
"I want you to be my devoted guard. Swear me your fealty," demanded Huang Xiaoyue with a commanding tone.
Anyone else telling Xiang Shaoyun this would be met with a slap without mercy. But Huang Xiaoyue looked too adorable and innocent that he couldn't even bring himself to feel any anger toward her. In fact, she reminded him of Ye Chaomu, whom he hadn't seen in a long time. Thus, he had the urge to tease her for a bit. "What do I stand to gain by swearing fealty to you?"
"Of course, you stand to gain a lot of benefits. By becoming this princess's glorious guard, your fame will spread across the Dragon Phoenix Academy and the entire dominion. Anyone who dares to disrespect you will all be beaten up!" declared Huang Xiaoyue like she was some unstoppable conqueror of the universe.
"Oh? That really sounds attractive. Too bad I'm a tad bit too weak. I'm not even at the Dragon Ascension Realm yet. How am I even capable of protecting you, Your Highness? At the very least, I need to reach the Heaven Battling Realm to be qualified to serve under you. Princess, for now, you might want to look for a more suitable guard," said Xiang Shaoyun, but inwardly, he thought, This little girl is quite innocent and adorable.
"You sure know your place. But don't worry. This princess finds you pleasing to the eye. I can guarantee that you can reach the Heaven Battling Realm easily in the future. Just stay by my side for now. This princess shall look after you," declared Huang Xiaoyue with her chest puffed.
"I think it's better we wait until I reach the Heaven Battling Realm," said Xiang Shaoyun, somewhat speechless. It was obvious his words were a polite rejection, yet this girl didn't even notice?
Chapter 602: A Fine Heroic and Handsome Prince
"No! Do you think this princess is stupid? How am I supposed to find you at that time?" Huang Xiaoyue said unhappily. Then, her eyes shifted in realization, and she said, "I understand now. You don't want to be my glorious guard at all, right?"
Looks like you're not completely stupid after all, thought Xiang Shaoyun inwardly. He smiled and said, "It's good you understand that. I don't have to explain more, then."
He then left.
"For daring to ignore the words of this princess, I shall teach you a lesson!" shouted Huang Xiaoyue as she proceeded to attack.
But at this moment, several figures shot over rapidly. One of them shouted, "Do not be rude, imperial sister!"
The voice was loud and clear, laced with a trace of a commanding presence. When Huang Xiaoyue heard the voice, she stomped her feet sullenly and glared at Xiang Shaoyun angrily. In a flash, the newcomers arrived before Huang Xiaoyue. At the head of them was Huang Tianji, her elder brother.
Huang Tianji did not disappoint as a prince of the Dusk Dynasty. He wore a golden outfit embroidered with dragons and phoenixes, and exuded a noble presence. He was extraordinarily handsome, his eyes as bright as the sun and the moon. He also wore a crown atop his head, and his body was tall and straight, releasing the imposing aura of a dragon. Anyone who saw him would have the urge to praise, "What a fine, heroic, and handsome prince!"
He was about 25 years old, yet he was already an Emperor. Furthermore, he was not just an average Emperor. He had outstanding combat prowess surpassing many ordinary Emperors.
With a single look, Xiang Shaoyun could see the remarkable strength the prince possessed. Furthermore, the pressure the prince was exuding was comparable to that of a late-stage Emperor.
Inwardly, Xiang Shaoyun muttered, Worthy of being a descendant of an imperial clan. His talent is really scary.
Huang Tianji said to Huang Xiaoyue, "Imperial sister, I thought I told you not to run around causing trouble? Quick, apologize to Young Master Xiang!"
Xiang Shaoyun had not imagined that Huang Tianji would actually know him. After all, he had never met the prince face to face before. He only knew the man was Huang Tianji because the man had addressed Huang Xiaoyue as imperial sister when he had arrived. Little did Xiang Shaoyun know, ever since he had shown his high-grade nine-star physique, his appearance had been spread all over the academy.
"I wasn't wrong! Why do I need to apologize?" Huang Xiaoyue rebutted unhappily. She then quickly shifted to the tone of a spoiled child, "Imperial brother, he has the best physique, right? If I can make him my guard, Father will definitely praise me for my wisdom when I return to the dynasty in the future!"
Huang Tianji had a helpless smile as he said, "My dearest imperial sister, yes, you're wise, but are the elders of the academy all blind?"
He then ignored Huang Xiaoyue and faced Xiang Shaoyun before politely saying, "Young Master Xiang, my apologies for the trouble my sister has given you."
Xiang Shaoyun waved his hand and said, "Don't worry about it. Her Highness is quite a pure person."
"Smart choice!" said Huang Xiaoyue proudly when she saw that Xiang Shaoyun hadn't talked badly about her.
However, Huang Tianji understood what Xiang Shaoyun meant. Saying she was pure was merely a roundabout way of saying she's simple-minded. However, Huang Tianji wasn't angered. After all, that was the truth. Huang Xiaoyue was unruly and willful, but she was still kind at heart. It wasn't odd that Xiang Shaoyun didn't mind her at all.
He then extended Xiang Shaoyun an invitation, "If Young Master Xiang does not mind, shall we have a drink together?"
Xiang Shaoyun hesitated slightly before answering, "Sure. It is my pleasure to be able to drink with you, Your Highness."
And thus, the group headed toward a restaurant within the academy. When Xiang Shaoyun walked with Huang Tianji's group, they attracted a lot of attention. One was the publicly acknowledged member of the eight freaks, while the other was the disciple with the best physique. The gathering of the two was rather thought provoking for many people.
...
Meanwhile, Feng Xiaosha had just returned to his villa from a certain unique cultivation zone. This was the same young master from the Feng Clan who had a previous conflict with Xiang Shaoyun at the Dragon Phoenix Restaurant. Xuan Zheng, who was killed by Xiang Shaoyun, was his lackey. He had subsequently sent more people to deal with Xiang Shaoyun, but only Mu Qingyu and Wang Xin returned alive.
; He had no idea Mu Qingyu and Wang Xin were both currently under Xiang Shaoyun's control. After returning to him, the two had lied and said that they hadn't managed to find Xiang Shaoyun when he had sent them after him. They had also said that a Demon Emperor had attacked them and that they were the only ones to survive.
After a year of cultivation in the Dragon Phoenix Academy, Feng Xiaosha's strength had grown considerably. Although he wasn't comparable with the eight freaks, he could definitely enter the Dragon Phoenix List's top 10. He had a look of contemplation when he was updated on the various news regarding Xiang Shaoyun.
There was a previous conflict between him and Xiang Shaoyun. Thus, it was only a matter of time before they clashed against each other again. He did not wish to make a move only after Xiang Shaoyun entered the Dragon Ascension Realm. He would be in too reactive a position if he allowed that to happen.
After all, Xiang Shaoyun would always remain a dreadful hidden threat due to his insane physique. While he was busy thinking of a way to deal with Xiang Shaoyun, his uncle arrived.
Feng Xiaosha quickly greeted deferentially, "Greetings, Uncle."
The newcomer was none other than Feng Huosuo, who did not get along well with Xiao Wei. He was also Feng Xiaosha's uncle.
"Don't bother with the pleasantries." He then praised, "Your recent progress in cultivation has been great. You're even a fourth-stage Dragon Ascension Realm cultivator already! You have not disappointed the special-recruit quota I gave you."
"I will forever remember the favor you have shown me, Uncle," said Feng Xiaosha.
"Don't worry about it. Your growth is all due to your talent and hard work. But don't get conceited because of your growth. There are quite a number of disciples still stronger than you," reminded Feng Huosuo. He then went straight to the main reason he came. "I'm here to ask you something. I heard you once had a conflict with Xiang Shaoyun?"
"Yes, that's right," Feng Xiaosha said before giving an explanation on the conflict. Of course, even without him saying it, Feng Huosuo had long known the full story.