Chapter 169: Heavenly Human Cang Yuan Issues Challenge Letter, Ji Qing Accepts And Causes Sensation!
Ji Qing smiled.
He had previously thought True Person Baoyue was aloof, solemn, and sacred, not to be profaned.
As it turned out, a Magic Treasure seemed to make True Person Baoyue seem more “real.”
However, it was naturally best for Ji Qing that True Person Baoyue was willing to talk.
Thus, Ji Qing explained, “Ji Mou cultivates a Martial Art that requires smelting the Divine Fire within this Pagoda. But the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda is a Magic Treasure that only Golden Core True Persons can activate, which is why Ji Mou thought of True Person Baoyue, hoping she could activate the Divine Fire within the Pagoda so that Ji Mou could smelt the Divine Fire and thereby cultivate his Martial Art.”
“It’s that simple?”
“Yes, it’s that simple. The only trouble might be that it requires a very long time, at least several months, and possibly up to a year.”
True Person Baoyue pondered this.
Magic Treasures were indeed very precious.
Many Golden Core True Persons did not possess them.
But this did not include True Disciples.
Wind Thunder Sect True Disciples definitely had Magic Treasures.
True Person Baoyue also had Magic Treasures, even more than one.
Comparing True Person Chong Yi to True Person Baoyue, there was no comparison at all.
But as it was said, which Golden Core True Person would complain about having more Magic Treasures?
True Person Baoyue asked, “Is the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda the Magic Treasure of True Person Chong Yi of the Zhou Tian Sect?”
“Yes, I killed True Person Chong Yi in Quan City and obtained this Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda.”
“Then what Martial Art do you cultivate, Fellow Daoist, that allows you to smelt Divine Fire?”
“Five Elements Divine Light Great Law.”
True Person Baoyue’s heart trembled.
Although she was a Golden Core cultivator of the Immortal Path.
She had indeed heard of the Five Elements Divine Light Great Law, a top-tier Heavenly Human Realm Martial Art.
This Martial Art was acclaimed as the most supreme Divine Skill within the Heavenly Human Realm.
Once mastered, its Might was unimaginable.
It could even be considered unrivaled among peers!
Such a Martial Art had never been successfully cultivated by anyone in the Wind Thunder Sect.
To think that Ji Qing was cultivating this Martial Art, and even seemed to have a high chance of success.
“Fellow Daoist Ji, Baoyue can help you cultivate. However, I will not take the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda; consider it Baoyue doing you a favor.”
Baoyue spoke slowly.
“You don’t want the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda?”
This was a Magic Treasure. True Person Baoyue had clearly wanted it before; why didn’t she want it now?
Free is the most expensive!
Ji Qing knew this truth.
True Person Baoyue wanting nothing made Ji Qing uneasy.
“Fellow Daoist Baoyue, if you don’t want anything, Ji Mou will be even more uneasy. Please state your reason.”
“It’s actually very simple. While Magic Treasures are good, this Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda is not absolutely indispensable to me. On the other hand, if Fellow Daoist Ji cultivates the Five Elements Divine Light Great Law and becomes powerful, then your future favor to me will be worth far more than a Magic Treasure!”
True Person Baoyue also revealed her thoughts truthfully.
Both parties prioritized sincerity.
After all, there was nothing to scheme about in such a matter.
It was a matter of mutual willingness.
Otherwise, any hidden thoughts or schemes would create a rift.
“A favor…”
Ji Qing looked up at True Person Baoyue.
Her gaze was calm.
Clearly, True Person Baoyue believed Ji Qing’s favor was worth far more than a Magic Treasure.
The favor of a Wind Thunder Sect True Disciple was indeed worth far more than a Magic Treasure!
As for Ji Qing?
He naturally agreed.
True Person Baoyue had agreed to help him cultivate; what else did he have to worry about?
Moreover, he hadn’t even paid anything yet.
It was merely a potential favor he might owe in the future.
For Ji Qing at this moment, there was no loss whatsoever.
“Then Ji Mou thanks Fellow Daoist Baoyue.”
Ji Qing cupped his fists towards True Person Baoyue in gratitude.
“Fellow Daoist Ji, when will you begin?”
“I can start anytime; it mainly depends on whether Fellow Daoist Baoyue has the time.”
Baoyue nodded and said, “Good, then we can start now.”
Ji Qing immediately handed the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda to True Person Baoyue.
True Person Baoyue did not covet the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda; she didn’t even refine it.
After all, she only needed to manipulate the Pagoda to release the Divine Fire.
No refinement was necessary.
Thus, True Person Baoyue activated her pure Magic Power.
“Hum.”
The Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda immediately blazed with divine light, and wisps of Divine Fire flew out from the Pagoda.
Ji Qing was overjoyed.
True Person Baoyue was indeed a Golden Core True Person.
Her Magic Power was truly incomparably pure.
Far exceeding Zhao Xiaozhu and Mu Yunxia.
She could sustain the activation of the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda for any length of time.
Ji Qing also activated the Five Elements Divine Light Great Law and directly grabbed with his hand.
He caught the Divine Fire in his hand.
This was Divine Fire.
Yet Ji Qing could withstand the scorching heat of the Divine Fire.
Then, with the Five Elements Divine Light Great Law circulating, Ji Qing began to smelt the Divine Fire into his body bit by bit.
Seeing this, a flicker of brilliance flashed in True Person Baoyue’s eyes.
“It truly is the Five Elements Divine Light Great Law… Moreover, his Physical Body is very strong, able to withstand the scorching heat of the Divine Fire. No wonder he could kill True Person Chong Yi; True Person Chong Yi did not die in vain…”
True Person Baoyue finally understood how Ji Qing had killed True Person Chong Yi.
With a Physical Body that did not fear Divine Fire, even if True Person Chong Yi wielded the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda, Ji Qing completely countered him.
“Fellow Daoist Baoyue, again!”
“Alright.”
True Person Baoyue released another wisp of Divine Fire.
“Fellow Daoist Ji, are you still alright?”
“I’m fine, you can give me more.”
True Person Baoyue then activated more Divine Fire.
Ji Qing smelted it bit by bit; with every wisp of Divine Fire he smelted, his Physical Body improved.
True Person Baoyue watched as Ji Qing’s Physical Body improved almost at a visible speed.
It was important to note that once the Five Elements Divine Light Great Law was mastered, it automatically encompassed the Five Elements Artistic Conception, naturally leading to stepping into the Heavenly Human Realm!
In other words, Ji Qing was now progressing almost every moment.
Every day he was closer to the Heavenly Human Realm.
“Such a powerful Physical Body… it’s simply incredible.”
True Person Baoyue looked at Ji Qing’s powerful Physical Body, feeling greatly astonished.
Even other Heavenly Human Realm martial artists did not possess such a strong Physical Body.
Time flew by, and only a few days had passed since cultivation began.
With True Person Baoyue’s help, Ji Qing’s smelting of Divine Fire was progressing at a divine speed.
Conversely, the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda was holding them back.
Even with Spirit Stones to recover, the speed at which the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda recovered Divine Fire could not keep up with Ji Qing’s smelting speed.
There was now very little Divine Fire left in the Pagoda.
Only some embers remained.
This could no longer be smelted.
The embers had to be preserved to facilitate easier recovery.
“After one or two more cultivation sessions, the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda will likely need a good few days of rest.”
True Person Baoyue was about to remind Ji Qing.
“Swish.”
Suddenly, Ji Qing opened his eyes.
Ji Qing took out a Communication Stone.
“Hmm? Well done, Red Pill Tower!”
A cold glint appeared in Ji Qing’s eyes.
“Fellow Daoist Ji, what’s going on?”
True Person Baoyue asked.
Ji Qing said in a deep voice, “True Person Baoyue, I’m afraid our cultivation must be temporarily interrupted. I have some matters to attend to.”
“It’s fine. I was just about to remind you that the Divine Fire within the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda is almost depleted and needs a few days of rest to recover. Since you have matters to attend to now, go take care of them first. I’ll help you cultivate again in a few days.”
“Then I’ll trouble you, Fellow Daoist Baoyue. However, I don’t have Magic Power to nurture the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda, so it would be best if True Person Baoyue keeps this Pagoda. It will also allow the Divine Fire within the Pagoda to recover faster.”
True Person Baoyue pursed her lips and smiled, “Fellow Daoist Ji, you truly don’t want to suffer any losses, even wanting Baoyue to help nurture a Magic Treasure for you.”
However, True Person Baoyue still took the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda into her body.
Nurturing the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda with her Golden Core Magic Power would indeed speed up the recovery of the Divine Fire.
True Person Baoyue departed.
Ji Qing immediately got up and left the True Inheritance Grand Hall, flying to the Pill Shop in Heavenly Desolation City.
He was furious!
He had been cultivating peacefully, and could have continued for another day or two, but now he was interrupted.
“Whoosh.”
Ji Qing arrived at the Pill Shop.
His expression was somewhat grim as he looked at Zhao Xiaozhu.
“Fellow Daoist Zhao, what exactly happened?”
Zhao Xiaozhu’s expression was also very unpleasant as he explained, “Last time, following Brother Ji’s instructions, I agreed that Yu Hu Daoren could come to the Pill Shop. Yu Hu Daoren was also very straightforward and left the Red Pill Tower the next day, preparing to join our Pill Shop.”
“However, after only a day at the Pill Shop, Yu Hu Daoren refused to come anymore, no matter what. Later, I learned that Yu Hu Daoren was threatened and returned to the Red Pill Tower. Yu Hu Daoren dared not speak out of anger. This matter is too serious, and I didn’t dare to delay even a moment, which is why I sent a Communication Talisman to Brother Ji.”
Ji Qing frowned, “Did you mention to the people from the Red Pill Tower that it was my idea?”
“I did… They didn’t seem to care…”
Zhao Xiaozhu looked at Ji Qing cautiously.
In reality, it was even worse.
The Red Pill Tower not only didn’t care about Ji Qing, but they completely disregarded him.
Perhaps, in the eyes of the Red Pill Tower, Ji Qing had lost his hope of advancing to True Disciple, so he was insignificant. He could only be an Inner Sect Disciple, at most a Heavenly Human in the future, but so what?
The Red Pill Tower had two Heavenly Humans and one Golden Core; why would they fear Ji Qing?
“Very good!”
An uncontainable rage brewed within Ji Qing.
He was already somewhat angry about his cultivation being interrupted.
Now, upon hearing the Red Pill Tower’s actions, his anger intensified.
Ji Qing had originally thought that with his Heavenly Human Combat Power and ability to Defeat Golden Core, those Heavenly Humans and Golden Cores would at least show him some respect.
After all, they were all in Heavenly Desolation City, and there were no major conflicts of interest.
And yet, this was the outcome?
The Red Pill Tower didn’t even give face to an Alchemist.
It seemed Ji Qing had truly overestimated his own standing.
He had already roughly guessed.
It was likely that his Rank Assessment of ten patterns had failed, making the Red Pill Tower dismiss him.
Previously, those Heavenly Humans and Golden Cores showed Ji Qing respect because they thought he might achieve ten patterns and had the hope of advancing to True Disciple, possessing infinite future and Potential.
But now?
They believed Ji Qing would at most become a Heavenly Human in the future.
If they didn’t want to give face, so what?
“Fellow Daoist Zhao, accompany me to the Red Pill Tower. I will personally retrieve Yu Hu Daoren. I’d like to see who dares to stop me!”
Ji Qing immediately took Zhao Xiaozhu and swiftly flew towards the Red Pill Tower.
Soon, Ji Qing and Zhao Xiaozhu arrived outside the Red Pill Tower.
Ji Qing also saw the Red Pill Tower.
The scale of the Red Pill Tower far surpassed Zhao Xiaozhu’s Pill Shop.
Many cultivators came and went.
Ji Qing immediately shouted, “Fellow Daoist Yu Hu, please come out and meet me!”
The enormous sound instantly spread throughout Heavenly Desolation City.
The Red Pill Tower was naturally also alerted.
An old Daoist with what seemed like a rosacea nose came out of the Red Pill Tower, looking somewhat puzzled when he saw Ji Qing.
“You are…”
“Fellow Daoist Yu Hu, this is Ji Qing, an inner sect disciple of the Wind Thunder Sect! You can now leave the Red Pill Tower with peace of mind. With Fellow Daoist Ji here, no one will dare to stop you.”
Zhao Xiaozhu spoke.
Seeing Zhao Xiaozhu, True Person Yu Hu showed obvious interest.
He truly did not want to stay in the Red Pill Tower.
This time, he had even fallen out with the Red Pill Tower.
It was only because the Red Pill Tower threatened him, and he was just a Foundation Establishment cultivator, what could he do?
“Fellow Daoist Ji, can you truly shelter this old Daoist?”
True Person Yu Hu hesitated somewhat.
“Rest assured, Fellow Daoist Yu Hu. Since I am here today, I will naturally take you away safely! I see today, who dares to stop you?”
Ji Qing’s voice was not loud, but his tone was decisive.
“Good!”
True Person Yu Hu no longer hesitated and immediately flew towards Ji Qing.
He had stayed in the Red Pill Tower long enough!
“Old Daoist Yu Hu, do you dare?”
At this moment, a cultivator at Foundation Establishment Perfection flew out from the Red Pill Tower.
He directly unleashed a parasol-shaped magic treasure, seemingly to block True Person Yu Hu.
“Hmph.”
Ji Qing let out a cold snort.
Then he flicked his finger.
“Swoosh.”
A saber qi shot through the air, instantly piercing the opponent’s parasol-shaped magic treasure, and even the saber qi continued to strike the Foundation Establishment cultivator’s body.
“Ah…”
The Foundation Establishment cultivator cried out in pain.
With just one strike, the saber qi cut through the Foundation Establishment cultivator’s protective magic treasure and even severed one of his arms.
Silence!
The surroundings seemed to fall silent all at once.
Only the Foundation Establishment cultivator with the severed arm was wailing.
The Red Pill Tower had so many Foundation Establishment and Dao Foundation cultivators.
Yet now, not a single one dared to come out.
Their gazes towards Ji Qing were filled with a trace of fear.
After all, that was Ji Qing!
Who in Heavenly Desolation City didn’t know Ji Qing now?
A Dao Foundation martial artist who could defeat Golden Core!
Although it was said that Ji Qing failed his ten-rank assessment.
But even a failure was a powerful figure who could defeat Golden Core.
How could they be presumptuous?
Didn’t they see that cultivator at Foundation Establishment Perfection?
With just a casual saber qi, he severed the arm of the Foundation Establishment Perfection cultivator.
The gap in strength was too great!
Countless gazes from the surroundings also focused on this scene.
Many people had only heard of Ji Qing’s great name, defeating Golden Core.
But they had never seen Ji Qing actually make a move.
Seeing is believing.
Before, some people thought that Ji Qing’s feat of defeating Golden Core might have been exaggerated.
But now, with just a casual saber qi, he severed the arm of the Foundation Establishment Perfection cultivator.
True Heavenly Humans were no more than this.
“A person’s reputation precedes them; Ji Qing’s fame is well-deserved.”
“Heh heh, even True Person Chong Yi of the Zhou Tian Sect was killed. It’s said that True Person Chong Yi even had a magic treasure. He wielded a magic treasure and still died at Ji Qing’s hands, so how could that be false?”
“This Red Pill Tower actually provoked Ji Qing, and judging by Ji Qing’s demeanor, he’s here with anger.”
“The Red Pill Tower has run into a tough opponent.”
“If the Golden Core True Person or Heavenly Human expert of the Red Pill Tower had come forward, it would have been different. What is a mere Foundation Establishment cultivator, even at Foundation Establishment Perfection? They are not worthy of contending with Ji Qing. Ji Qing not killing him already shows respect for the Red Pill Tower.”
“Heh heh, the Red Pill Tower has two Heavenly Humans and one Golden Core. This matter is not over…”
Ji Qing ignored the discussions around him.
He coldly stared at the Red Pill Tower and asked in a calm tone, “I am taking True Person Yu Hu away. Who else intends to stop me?”
The voice echoed above the Red Pill Tower.
However, no one blocked him.
Nor did anyone speak.
Even the Foundation Establishment cultivator on the ground gritted his teeth, not daring to make a sound.
He even deeply regretted his actions in his heart.
Why had he so rashly tried to stop True Person Yu Hu?
This matter was clearly the Red Pill Tower’s fault.
Now that Ji Qing had personally come, and neither of the Red Pill Tower’s two Heavenly Humans nor their Golden Core had appeared.
How would the Red Pill Tower dare to obstruct him?
“If anyone has an opinion, let the three Tower Masters of the Red Pill Tower come find me!”
After Ji Qing finished speaking, he directly took True Person Yu Hu and left.
Ji Qing’s “overbearing” action immediately spread throughout Heavenly Desolation City.
Who would have thought that after failing his ten-rank assessment, Ji Qing not only didn’t get discouraged but became so overbearing?
Even ordinary Heavenly Humans and Golden Cores would likely not dare to act like this.
Ji Qing brought True Person Yu Hu back to the Pill Shop.
True Person Yu Hu respectfully bowed to Ji Qing and said, “Thank you for your protection, Fellow Daoist Ji.”
Ji Qing nodded and said, “Rest assured, True Person Yu Hu, no one can take you away!”
Zhao Xiaozhu appeared very excited.
Ji Qing’s overbearing demeanor today did not worry her; instead, she found it exhilarating.
Mu Yunxia, however, was more composed. She said with some hesitation, “Fellow Daoist Ji, you have offended the Red Pill Tower so greatly today. In the future, I fear…”
“No need to worry. The three Tower Masters of the Red Pill Tower will not make things difficult for you. If they are truly angered, they will only come looking for me. Besides, I am not far from becoming a Heavenly Human. Once I advance to the Heavenly Human realm, I can destroy ordinary Heavenly Humans and Golden Cores with a raise of my hand!”
Ji Qing’s words revealed strong confidence.
This statement also somewhat reassured Zhao Xiaozhu and the others.
Thus, Ji Qing returned to the Wind Thunder Sect, quietly waiting for a few days. Once the divine fire within the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda returned, he could continue to refine the divine fire for cultivation.
Moreover, Ji Qing was also waiting during these few days.
To see what reaction the three Tower Masters of the Red Pill Tower would have.
If they truly refused to let it go.
Then Ji Qing wouldn’t mind confronting the three Tower Masters of the Red Pill Tower!
At this moment, at the Red Pill Tower.
The arm of the Foundation Establishment cultivator who had his arm severed had been reattached.
But his face was still pale, and he remained silent with his head down.
The entire Red Pill Tower was immersed in an extremely oppressive and tense atmosphere.
“Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh.”
Suddenly, three figures flew into the Red Pill Tower from outside.
Upon seeing these three figures, the cultivators of the Red Pill Tower were immediately invigorated.
“Greetings to the three Tower Masters!”
The broken-armed Foundation Establishment cultivator also immediately stood up.
A glimmer of light appeared in his eyes.
One of the Golden Core True Persons looked at the Foundation Establishment cultivator and coldly said, “Kong Chen, come up.”
“Yes, Tower Master.”
Kong Chen quickly followed.
The three Tower Masters sat in a room.
“Kong Chen, explain. What happened?”
True Person Qingya asked coldly.
He was the true founder of the Red Pill Tower.
The other two Heavenly Humans were actually brought into the Red Pill Tower by True Person Qingya.
And Kong Chen was also a subordinate of True Person Qingya.
“Thump.”
Kong Chen directly knelt on the ground.
“Three Tower Masters, it is my fault… The alchemist of the Red Pill Tower, True Person Yu Hu, wanted to go to Zhao Xiaozhu’s Pill Shop. So I tried to threaten True Person Yu Hu to make him stay in the Red Pill Tower. But who knew that Ji Qing would directly find the Red Pill Tower, sever my arm, and forcibly take away True Person Yu Hu.”
Kong Chen did not dare to conceal anything.
He told the entire story.
In fact, Kong Chen had some things he did not reveal.
He had reported this matter to the three Tower Masters in advance.
The three Tower Masters had told him not to worry, which was why Kong Chen dared to threaten True Person Yu Hu and make him stay in the Red Pill Tower.
But he dared not say it.
After all, he was the one who had to take the blame for such a thing.
Was he going to make the three Tower Masters admit their mistake?
That was impossible.
“Alright, Kong Chen, you can go out now.”
“Yes, Tower Master.”
Kong Chen went out, and the three Tower Masters exchanged glances. Finally, True Person Qingya spoke, “Fellow Daoists, that Ji Qing failed his ten-rank assessment. I thought he would lie low and cultivate, but I didn’t expect him to be so fierce! For a mere alchemist, he dared to confront my Red Pill Tower. Now, this is no longer just about a mere alchemist; it concerns the reputation of the Red Pill Tower and the reputation of the three of us!”
The three of them thought this was a minor matter.
Was it worth it for Ji Qing to confront the three of them, two Heavenly Humans and one Golden Core expert, for a mere alchemist?
But in reality, they had underestimated Ji Qing.
They did not expect Ji Qing to be completely unfazed by the three of them.
Now, the Red Pill Tower was in a difficult dilemma.
If they ignored it, the Red Pill Tower’s authority would be lost, and the three of them would become a laughingstock.
If they were to act, how should they act?
Three against one was definitely not an option.
Ji Qing was an inner sect disciple of the Wind Thunder Sect.
One-on-one would be acceptable.
But three against one, was that implying the Wind Thunder Sect had no one?
“I’ll go.”
At this moment, Cang Yuan, one of the Heavenly Humans, spoke.
Cang Yuan was burly and came from the Golden Dragon Holy Land.
Cang Yuan was not adept at using divine weapons; he achieved the Heavenly Human realm through his fist techniques!
“Fellow Daoist Cang Yuan, do you have confidence?”
True Person Qingya asked.
“Confidence…”
“Even if Ji Qing truly possesses Heavenly Human combat power, he is ultimately just a Dao Foundation! A Dao Foundation cultivator, without Heavenly Human artistic conception, might be able to defeat Golden Core through special means, but he will have no advantage against a Heavenly Human.”
“Moreover, I have investigated his situation. In his previous battle with True Person Chong Yi, True Person Chong Yi used a magic treasure against Ji Qing. However, the magic treasure released divine fire, and Ji Qing happened to be able to fearlessly face the divine fire, subtly restraining True Person Chong Yi. True Person Chong Yi only died in the end because Ji Qing exhausted his magic power. This indicates that Ji Qing’s methods were insufficient to break through a Golden Core True Person’s protective magic.”
“Heavenly Humans are different. We Heavenly Humans fight heaven and earth, relying not on magic treasures, nor on divine weapons, but on our own power! Facing True Person Chong Yi, if I could fearlessly face his magic treasure, then I could also easily obliterate True Person Chong Yi without having to exhaust his magic power!”
Cang Yuan’s analysis made True Person Qingya’s eyes light up.
Even Tai’a, the other Heavenly Human expert, nodded.
“Indeed, Golden Cores are too reliant on magic treasures, unlike us Heavenly Humans. If one can block the magic treasure, or if the magic treasure is ineffective, then killing a Golden Core is too easy. Cang Yuan’s intervention should be able to defeat Ji Qing.”
True Person Qingya scanned Tai’a and Cang Yuan.
He knew that these two old friends would not speak without reason.
He was not a reckless person either.
Since he actively sought a fight, he must have had confidence.
“Good, then according to the old rules of Heavenly Desolation City, we’ll send a challenge letter! Fellow Daoist Cang Yuan is a Heavenly Human Realm Elder of the Golden Dragon Holy Land, and Ji Qing is an inner sect disciple of the Wind Thunder Sect. Any private actions could trigger friction between the two major sects. But if it’s a challenge letter, it’s different. Once the challenge letter is accepted, it becomes a personal matter, and life and death are irrelevant!”
Cang Yuan nodded.
A challenge letter.
Deep in his heart, he already felt a hint of excitement.
He had been promoted to the Heavenly Human Realm for too long.
He had long been accustomed to comfort and superiority.
Normally, he didn’t need to take action.
But he was a martial artist.
What is a martial artist?
To fight against heaven and earth is to be a martial artist!
Without fighting, how can one be called a martial artist?
Ji Qing was a very good opponent, giving Cang Yuan a sense of long-lost excitement.
The next day, the challenge letter was delivered to Ji Qing.
Ji Qing looked at the challenge letter before him.
He suddenly felt a sense of “familiarity.”
A challenge letter.
How ancient, yet he felt a sense of closeness.
Ji Qing’s first famous battle was to deliver a challenge letter to the Tian Yang Gang, fighting against Li Tianyang in the name of the Hundred Battles Sect.
And now, Ji Qing had come to the Barren Domain and received a challenge letter again.
He looked at the name on the challenge letter.
“Golden Dragon Holy Land, Cang Yuan!”
Ji Qing pondered.
Cang Yuan, he had naturally heard of.
Heavenly Human Cang Yuan, an elder of the Golden Dragon Holy Land, and also one of the three Tower Masters of the Red Pill Tower.
He was skilled in fist techniques.
He broke through the Heavenly Gate with a pair of iron fists to reach the Dao Foundation, and later gained enlightenment of the artistic conception of fist techniques, achieving Heaven and Man Unity, and finally ascended to the Heavenly Human Realm!
This was a very formidable opponent.
Even in Ji Qing’s opinion, he was much more difficult to deal with than True Person Chong Yi.
After all, Cang Yuan didn’t even use divine weapons, nor did he cultivate the Power of the Five Elements, so he had no way to restrain Cang Yuan.
Moreover, he didn’t rely on magic treasures or divine weapons; his power came from himself.
He was practically flawless!
Only such a powerful figure could be considered a true opponent!
As for Golden Core?
In Ji Qing’s opinion, they actually had many weaknesses.
In fact, many Golden Core cultivators could be countered by him.
In an instant, many thoughts flashed through Ji Qing’s mind.
However, he still reached out and grabbed.
He took the challenge letter into his hand.
“Challenge letter, I accept!”
Ji Qing ultimately accepted the challenge letter.
The time for the challenge did not need to be too long; it was in three days.
Ji Qing accepted Cang Yuan’s challenge letter.
This caused a huge stir throughout Heavenly Desolation City.
After all, one Heavenly Human and one Dao Foundation Cultivator already held immense topic potential.
Furthermore, this involved the Wind Thunder Sect and the Golden Dragon Holy Land.
This made it even more eye-catching.
The Wind Thunder Sect was an Immortal Path Sect, but it happened to have a Martial Dao Lineage, and this Martial Dao Lineage was not weak.
However, the Martial Dao Lineage of the Wind Thunder Sect was only strong on the surface.
Compared to the other Martial Saint Sects in Heavenly Desolation City, many people were actually not very clear.
This battle between Ji Qing and Cang Yuan involved the Golden Dragon Holy Land and the Martial Dao Lineage of the Wind Thunder Sect.
Golden Dragon Holy Land.
Many disciples had already learned of this news.
And it quickly became the hottest topic in the Golden Dragon Holy Land.
Even Heavenly Human Realm Elders were paying attention.
“Cang Yuan is still too impatient. To actually send a challenge letter to a mere Dao Foundation Cultivator, even if he defeated True Person Chong Yi, so what? Our Heavenly Human Realm combat power is inherently stronger than Golden Core cultivators of the same level, let alone Ji Qing is just a Dao Foundation Cultivator. Even if he wins, what great benefit can it bring to our Golden Dragon Holy Land?”
“If he loses, our Golden Dragon Holy Land will probably become a laughingstock in Heavenly Desolation City. How can we still claim to be the number one Martial Dao Holy Land in Heavenly Desolation City?”
“Lose? Cang Yuan cannot lose!”
“Our Golden Dragon Holy Land is the number one Martial Dao Holy Land in Heavenly Desolation City! Although the Wind Thunder Sect is a Spirit Transformation Orthodox Lineage, how can its Martial Dao Lineage compare to our Golden Dragon Holy Land?”
Everyone in the Golden Dragon Holy Land had great confidence in Cang Yuan.
He could forge the Dao Foundation by forcefully breaking through the Heavenly Gate without using divine weapons, and later achieved the Heavenly Human Realm by gaining enlightenment of fist techniques and achieving Heaven and Man Unity.
Cang Yuan’s strength was extraordinary!
Throughout history, Dao Foundation Cultivators defeating Golden Core cultivators was not unheard of.
That was because Golden Core True Persons had a fatal flaw: they relied too much on magic tools and magic treasures.
But a Dao Foundation Cultivator defeating a Heavenly Human?
That had never happened.
……
In the Wind Thunder Sect, Elder Qi could feel his foundation gradually recovering.
In at most ten years, his foundation would be completely restored.
At that time, he could try to break through to Martial Saint again!
However, failing to break through to Martial Saint and damaging his foundation was secondary.
The “sharpness” in his heart had disappeared.
Elder Qi knew that even if his foundation recovered and he mustered the courage to attempt to break through to Martial Saint again, he would surely fail.
In this life, he would be stuck at the Heavenly Human Realm.
Truly… unwilling!
“Elder… I have something important to report.”
At this moment, Qing He’s voice sounded.
“What is it?”
Qing He walked in, her expression unreadable, and respectfully reported, “Elder, Cang Yuan, a Heavenly Human from the Golden Dragon Holy Land, has sent a challenge letter to Ji Qing, arranging a battle in Heavenly Desolation City in three days! And Ji Qing… has accepted the challenge!”
“Cang Yuan?”
Elder Qi’s expression became serious.
“Ji Qing once defeated a Golden Core cultivator and was very self-important. Later, his Rank Assessment failed with ten patterns, he must have been filled with rage and blinded by his head, daring to accept Cang Yuan’s challenge letter. Truly foolish! Does he think we Heavenly Humans are like those Golden Core cultivators?”
Qing He dared not reply.
It was widely known that between Heavenly Humans and Golden Core cultivators, Heavenly Humans had superior combat power.
The strength of a Golden Core cultivator often depended on their magic treasures.
The stronger the magic treasures, the stronger the Golden Core cultivator.
But this was also the weakness of Golden Core True Persons; if their magic treasures were targeted, then the Golden Core True Person’s strength would often not be a cause for concern.
This was also the reason why Dao Foundation Cultivators occasionally defeated Golden Core cultivators in history.
But Heavenly Humans were different.
Heavenly Human power originated from within themselves; even when using divine weapons, they did not rely on them.
They had almost no obvious weaknesses.
Therefore, in the history of the Barren Domain, Dao Foundation Cultivators defeating Golden Core cultivators occurred occasionally, but Dao Foundation Cultivators defeating Heavenly Humans had never happened.
“Elder, shall we go and watch the battle then?”
Qing He asked.
“Of course, we must go and watch! Cang Yuan is not weak, and although Ji Qing is foolish, his strength is indeed commendable. This battle will surely be very exciting. And it has been a long time since there was a great battle at the Heavenly Human Realm in Heavenly Desolation City.”
“Go and summon Luo Xiong and the other disciples. This battle might be an opportunity for them, not to be missed!”
“Yes, Elder.”
Qing He respectfully withdrew.
……
Three days passed in a flash.
The location for the battle between Ji Qing and Cang Yuan was not within Heavenly Desolation City.
It was in the Heavenly Desolation Battlefield outside the city.
To say it was outside the city was actually very close to Heavenly Desolation City.
It was almost part of Heavenly Desolation City.
It was said that this was once the place where two Deity Transformation Divine Lords fought.
The magnitude of the battle was earth-shattering.
In the end, the physical bodies of the two Deity Transformation Divine Lords were destroyed, and their Primordial Spirits escaped, resulting in a mutual defeat.
Finally, this vast, desolate area was formed, known as the Heavenly Desolation Battlefield.
Normally, few people came to the Heavenly Desolation Battlefield.
After all, it was a desolate place with nothing growing.
However, today, many cultivators had arrived at the Heavenly Desolation Battlefield early.
They came in an endless stream.
There were even many Golden Core True Persons and Heavenly Human experts among them.
As for Foundation Establishment and Dao Foundation cultivators, they were countless.
Especially the Holy Lands and Sects of Heavenly Desolation City, all of them were present.
For them, this battle between Ji Qing and Cang Yuan held great significance.
This was the first direct confrontation between the Martial Saint Holy Lands and the Martial Dao Lineage of the Wind Thunder Sect.
Although there had been veiled competition before.
They had never escalated to physical confrontation.
Overall, Heavenly Desolation City was still peaceful.
But this time was different.
This time it was already a Heavenly Human challenge.
It involved higher levels.
It was the first physical confrontation.
They also wanted to see how strong the Martial Dao Lineage of the Wind Thunder Sect truly was.
Previously, they only knew that the Martial Dao Lineage of the Wind Thunder Sect had produced Martial Saints.
However, these Martial Saint Sects did not take the Martial Dao Lineage of the Wind Thunder Sect seriously.
They always felt that the Martial Dao Lineage of the Wind Thunder Sect was merely an accessory to the Immortal Path Lineage and not worth mentioning.
But who would have known that the Martial Dao Lineage of the Wind Thunder Sect would produce someone like Ji Qing?
Able to defeat a Golden Core cultivator as a Dao Foundation Cultivator.
This was extraordinary.
However, those were just rumors.
Today, they would be able to witness Ji Qing’s true strength with their own eyes.
“Cang Yuan of the Golden Dragon Holy Land took the initiative to challenge Ji Qing. A Heavenly Human sending a challenge letter to a Dao Foundation Cultivator, even if he wins, there’s nothing to boast about.”
These were the words of other Martial Saint Sects.
After all, the Martial Saint Sects were not monolithic.
They only united when facing Deity Transformation Sects.
But at other times, there were also disputes.
“Elder Cang Yuan is one of the three Tower Masters of the Red Pill Tower. This time it’s a personal grudge between the Red Pill Tower and Ji Qing. Sending a challenge letter is proper and aboveboard, what’s wrong with that?”
These were the defenses of people from the Golden Dragon Holy Land.
However, others did not care about this point.
They didn’t even care about some of the grudges between the Martial Saint Sects and the Wind Thunder Sect.
They simply cared about who was stronger.
Especially Ji Qing, the focus of attention was highest.
Ji Qing had previously defeated a Golden Core cultivator and killed True Person Chong Yi of the Zhou Tian Sect.
Although the news was confirmed, no one in Heavenly Desolation City had witnessed it.
At this moment, Black Water Daoist arrived.
He looked around.
Finally, a familiar figure flew over.
The opponent emanated a sharp Sword Intent.
It was none other than the Crimson Sword Daoist.
“Fellow Daoist Crimson Sword, it’s been a long time. It seems your cultivation has advanced further, and you’re not far from forming a Golden Core, are you?”
The Black Water Daoist said with a smile.
The Crimson Sword Daoist also hailed from the Boundless Sea Region. Together with Ji Qing and the Black Water Daoist, he came to Heavenly Desolation City and joined the Heart Sword Sect, one of the three Deity Transformation Sects.
However, since the three were not in the same sect, their interactions became less frequent.
But this time, the Crimson Sword Daoist had also come.
The Crimson Sword Daoist replied with a smile, “What is my meager Magic Power? Forming a Golden Core… is still a distant prospect.”
He paused, then sighed, “It is Fellow Daoist Ji who is truly remarkable, causing such a stir without a word. Defeating a Golden Core, killing True Person Chong Yi, and now challenging Cang Yuan, a Heavenly Human of the Golden Dragon Holy Land – it’s truly awe-inspiring. Back in the Immeasurable Domain, Fellow Daoist Ji was already a prominent figure, and I never expected his brilliance to diminish even in the Barren Domain.”
The Crimson Sword Daoist was indeed filled with emotion.
Although he was in the Heart Sword Sect, he had heard of Ji Qing’s reputation.
The three of them were all “fellow countrymen.”
Seeing Ji Qing soar to such heights now, it was impossible not to feel a sense of awe.
“Fellow Daoist Black Water, you and Fellow Daoist Ji are both in the Wind Thunder Sect. Between Fellow Daoist Ji and Cang Yuan, who do you think is superior?”
the Crimson Sword Daoist asked.
He was very curious as well.
The Black Water Daoist narrowed his eyes slightly and said with a smile, “I’m not sure who is superior, but Fellow Daoist Ji is prudent in his actions. Since he has accepted the challenge, he must have some confidence.”
“Is that so?”
The Crimson Sword Daoist was surprised by the Black Water Daoist’s high evaluation and confidence in Ji Qing.
In truth, the Crimson Sword Daoist’s situation in the Heart Sword Sect wasn’t entirely smooth either.
Although his talent was also very high,
especially his talent in the Sword Dao.
However, he realized upon arriving in the Barren Domain that geniuses were not in short supply there.
He had to fight tooth and nail just to keep pace with those geniuses.
But when he looked back,
Ji Qing had already reached a height he dared not even dream of.
“Quick, look, Cang Yuan, the Heavenly Human, has arrived!”
At that moment, a burly figure flew onto the Heavenly Desolation Battlefield.
“Where is Ji Qing?”
Cang Yuan’s voice boomed across the surroundings.
However, there was no response.
Clearly, Ji Qing had not yet arrived.
The two had not agreed on a specific time.
It was only stated for today.
But since Ji Qing hadn’t arrived, Cang Yuan could only wait patiently.
At this moment, Ji Qing was preparing to depart.
He left the courtyard from his cultivation Secret Chamber.
However, as soon as he opened the door, a streak of light landed before him.
The streak of light transformed into a familiar figure.
“Fellow Daoist Baoyue?”
Ji Qing asked in confusion upon seeing True Person Baoyue.
True Person Baoyue looked at Ji Qing with a complex expression.
“Fellow Daoist Ji, you’ve caused quite a stir in the sect. Are you heading out to face Cang Yuan?”
“Yes.”
Ji Qing nodded.
This matter was now common knowledge, and True Person Baoyue naturally knew about it.
“Cang Yuan is no weakling… but it’s too late to say anything now. Actually, the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda was finished being nurtured a few days ago, and the Divine Fires have all recovered. It’s just a pity that Fellow Daoist Ji received the challenge, so Baoyue didn’t want to disturb you.”
“Since you are going to accept the challenge today, please take the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda with you.”
Ji Qing was slightly taken aback.
“I’ll take the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda? I’m not an Immortal Dao Cultivator, so a Magic Treasure would be useless… Therefore, please continue nurturing it, Fellow Daoist Baoyue.”
Ji Qing shook his head.
“Who says it’s useless? I’ve made slight modifications to the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda. Fellow Daoist Ji only needs to use the Divine Fire he has refined within him as a guide to summon the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda. I dare not guarantee anything else, but with the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda protecting you, it can still withstand attacks at the Heavenly Human Realm in critical moments.”
True Person Baoyue’s words greatly surprised Ji Qing.
He had actually modified the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda?
He, a Martial Artist, could even use it now?
Keep in mind, this was a Magic Treasure!
Afterward, a point of light flew out from within True Person Baoyue.
The light quickly formed into an exquisite small pagoda.
Whether it was Ji Qing’s imagination or not,
he felt that the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda before him seemed more agile and radiant.
Its aura seemed even stronger than before.
Ji Qing had also heard that each cultivator’s Magic Power had a different purity.
The higher the Purity of Magic Power, the stronger the Strength, and the more benefits there were.
For example, nurturing Magic Treasures and Magic Tools.
Those with higher Magic Power Purity could also make Magic Treasures and Magic Tools stronger.
Now it seemed to be true.
In just a few days of nurturing by True Person Baoyue, the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda was stronger than when True Person Chong Yi had nurtured it.
This was very telling.
After all, True Person Baoyue was a True Disciple.
The most talented disciple of the Immortal Path lineage.
How could True Person Chong Yi, who had no standing, be compared to a True Disciple of the Wind Thunder Sect?
Looking at the radiant Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda, Ji Qing did not hesitate and directly accepted the pagoda.
Immediately, the pagoda entered his body, emitting a warm sensation.
It truly felt different from before.
Was it because True Person Baoyue had just nurtured it, or had she modified it?
Ji Qing was unsure, so he slightly channeled a trace of Divine Fire within him.
Indeed, the Thirteen Layered Flame God Treasure Pagoda protected him.
Although this pagoda could not protect his entire body, it could shield his front, and even power at the Heavenly Human Realm could not break through it.
It could save his life in a critical moment!
True Person Baoyue had put genuine effort into this.
“Thank you for your trouble, Fellow Daoist Baoyue!”
Ji Qing expressed his gratitude to True Person Baoyue.
“Fellow Daoist Ji, don’t overthink it. It was just a simple task for me, nothing difficult.”
“Alright, hurry along. I also want to witness your prowess in defeating a Golden Core.”
True Person Baoyue smiled faintly.
However, such modifications were by no means easy to achieve.
Ji Qing could only quietly remember this in his heart, and then he and True Person Baoyue flew towards the Heavenly Desolation Battlefield together.
