Translator: CinderTL
As the words of acceptance fell, silence lingered in the hall for several breaths.
Chen Feng sat in his seat, expressionless, while the Third Elder, Xu Tingxiao, and others wore varying expressions—some worried, others excited.
Observing all this, the Whale Sect Grandmaster, clad in white robes, exchanged a glance with the Giant Elephant Grandmaster and sighed inwardly.
A martial prodigy could never lack pride.
He had ultimately underestimated the other party's resolve and confidence.
"Very well."
Shaking his head, the Whale Sect Grandmaster suppressed his distracting thoughts.
He wasn't in a hurry to leave; his purpose for coming here was to win over the Flame Tiger Sect.
After all, he was a Grandmaster. What if the other party actually managed to defeat Lu Xinglong by some stroke of luck?
"Since the Flame Tiger Grandmaster has made his decision, we have nothing more to say."
"However, this battle may very well shape the future of the southern martial world. That's why the two of us have come—to lend a hand."
The Whale Sect Grandmaster spoke gently, his calm eyes meeting Chen Feng's beneath his white eyebrows.
Chen Feng was surprised but then turned his gaze to the bald man in a loose hoodie.
"During the battle at Yue Mountain, if it weren't for Brother Chen's connections, we would have already been defeated by Lu Xinglong and reduced to subordinates of the Flying Dragon Sect."
"Last time, we didn't handle things properly. Whether out of duty or principle, we must make amends this time."
He clasped his hands in a gesture of respect. Chen Feng, deep in thought, didn't stand on ceremony and motioned for them to continue.
"Lu Xinglong has a deep foundation and has mastered many techniques. As this is a martial duel, the two of us cannot intervene directly, but we can help you guard against Cyborgs and other Grandmasters who might ambush you."
The Whale Sect Grandmaster took over the conversation without hesitation, speaking openly in front of everyone. "Besides, we haven't been idle during this time. We've specifically looked into the martial techniques Lu Xinglong has used in the past."
"Dragon Soars in the Sky, Water Dragon's Chant, Dragon Crane Art, Nine Overlapping Waves..."
One by one, he listed the True Arts of the Flying Dragon Sect, recounting them with precision and familiarity.
The opening moves, explosive techniques, and the weaknesses he had deduced.
Chen Feng listened quietly, while Cao Tong and the others gradually calmed down.
"The Nine Overlapping Waves is a momentum-building technique that only a Grandmaster who has broken through the Gate of Qi can master."
"It allows the Force of each strike to stack, incorporating any counterforce or external power into the next strike..."
The Whale Sect Grandmaster spoke in a measured tone. Chen Feng nodded slightly, acknowledging the goodwill behind the other party's words.
At the same time, the doubts in his heart dissipated. He finally understood why he had been struck so hard by Lu Xinglong that even his Titanium-grade Steel Bones were shattered and his Azure Armor pierced.
The stacking of Force, doubling with each strike—this was a technique no less profound than the Explosive Fist.
"There are many other True Arts as well, though not as top-tier as these. Still, they represent the foundation of the Flying Dragon Sect."
"Later, let's add each other on WeChat, and I'll give you a more detailed breakdown."
The Whale Sect Grandmaster chuckled, revealing his sly intentions.
Chen Feng didn't mind, and the Giant Elephant Grandmaster slapped his forehead, indicating he agreed.
Soon, as the discussion wound down, Chen Feng seized the opportunity to ask his final question.
"Both of you are Senior martial practitioners. May I ask, what exactly is the Gate of Spirit?"
"Oh?"
Raising an eyebrow, the Whale Sect Grandmaster and the Giant Elephant Grandmaster were momentarily stunned. Only then did they realize Chen Feng didn't know the intricacies of this.
No wonder you accepted the challenge.
Shaking his head inwardly, the Whale Sect Grandmaster decided to hold nothing back.
"The Gate of Spirit is the most difficult of the three gates for a Grandmaster to break through."
"In ancient times, it was even considered a special realm... called the 'Flawless State.'"
Chen Feng frowned, still not fully understanding. The Whale Sect Grandmaster patiently continued, "Three feet of divinity resides in my heart; this body is unbound and unrestrained."
"Once you break through the Gate of Spirit, you gain insight into the mysteries of your entire body. Every ounce of Force is used flawlessly, with no leakage whatsoever."
"Every move, every strike, though still mortal, under the gaze of the Spirit, can unleash its full potential."
After hearing this, Chen Feng fell into deep thought.
He roughly understood the wonders of the Gate of Spirit.
It was the full development of the body, or more accurately, the perfect utilization of the body.
It allowed every ounce of strength to be used to its maximum. The same move, the same punch, would undoubtedly be stronger than that of someone at the same level.
"That's why he can master the Dragon Crane Art."
The Giant Elephant Grandmaster sighed from the side, recalling the battle at Yue Mountain.
That perfect control over the body, even to the extent of mobilizing cells around wounds to accelerate healing—a formidable ability.
In all honesty, he was no match for it.
"Although the three gates of a Grandmaster are not ranked, in the martial world, it's generally acknowledged that those who break through the Gate of Spirit are stronger."
The Whale Sect Grandmaster remarked, "After all, when facing someone who can perfectly unleash all their potential and fully comprehend the mysteries of this realm..."
"Even if you possess astonishing physical strength or vast reserves of Force, it's hard to withstand their boundless insight and flawless execution."
"Moreover, he hasn't just broken through one gate."
There was a hidden meaning in his tone. Chen Feng remained silent.
Seeing Chen Feng deep in thought, the Whale Sect Grandmaster hoped he might reconsider, but he didn't press further.
Finally, he clasped his hands and stood up, leaving with the Giant Elephant Grandmaster and their entourage.
"Senior Brother?"
Watching the flying vehicle ascend, Xu Tingxiao stood beside Chen Feng, hesitating to speak.
Chen Feng turned to look at the others. The excitement on Cao Tong's and the others' faces had faded, replaced by worry, which now dominated their expressions.
The top-tier True Arts of the Flying Dragon Sect far surpassed those of the Flame Tiger Sect, which had declined over the years and lost much of its heritage.
Moreover, Lu Xinglong had broken through two gates.
For a moment, they all remembered the Whale Sect Grandmaster's words, and their worries deepened.
"Do you think I'll lose?"
Chen Feng asked calmly. Xu Tingxiao was momentarily stunned.
"No, I'm just worried..."
"There's no need to worry."
Chen Feng interrupted him, patting his shoulder.
"Everyone, you may leave."
Hearing this, the others had no choice but to nod and leave.
Only the Third Elder remained, as Chen Feng had something to discuss with him.
"Are you really going to accept the challenge?"
The Third Elder opened his mouth, speaking up for the first time to advise, "You're already a Grandmaster. You could take some people and leave, preserving the legacy of the Flame Tiger Sect."
"I believe you'll eventually bring glory to the Flame Tiger Sect, but now..."
"Third Martial Uncle."
Chen Feng interrupted again, giving him a reassuring look.
"You know I'm a Grandmaster."
His words were calm and steady. He was fully aware of his decision.
The battle at Yue Mountain had already taught him many things and revealed just how formidable the Flying Dragon Sect was.
But.
The Gate of Spirit?
How does it compare to my Perception talent?
Moreover, he was confident that within seven days, he could break through the Crimson Tiger Force, transforming it into the Heavenly Flame Technique, and forcefully open the Gate of Qi.
Of this, the Third Elder was unaware.
He opened his mouth to speak but ultimately fell silent.
A Grandmaster had his pride; how could he avoid a challenge and invite ridicule?
He understood the meaning, but his heart was filled with guilt.
He knew that the Flame Tiger Sect had become a burden to Chen Feng.
Yet, they were powerless to help...
"There's one thing I need your help with, Third Martial Uncle."
Chen Feng, noticing his thoughts, suddenly spoke up.
The Third Elder was momentarily stunned but quickly nodded and asked, "Just say the word."
"Please help me gather resources that replenish vital essence, or any secret medicines related to this."
Chen Feng thought of the residual memories related to the Seed of Life.
Consuming resources that replenish vital essence could accelerate the awakening process.
This was a power system that strengthened the body. If he could master it within these seven days, it would undoubtedly give him more trump cards.
By then, with the Heavenly Flame Technique complete and the Gate of Qi broken through...
Combined with the Gate of Essence and the strengthening effects of the Seed of Life...
What threat would Lu Xinglong and the Flying Dragon Sect pose?
As for the Serpent Spirit Fruit, that was just one of the backup resources. He couldn't rely solely on it.
"No problem."
The Third Elder mistakenly thought Chen Feng needed these resources for martial cultivation and didn't ask further. He quickly nodded and left, clearly intending to start gathering them as soon as possible.
After a while, Chen Feng was the only one left in the room.
Thoughts flashed through his mind, and he had never felt so calm before.
He spent the day training until late at night.
Having made his decision, he took one last look at the serpent-shaped mark on his hand.
The blazing sun hung high, as if it would never set.
The pale gray mountain ranges and city walls stood like giants in the distance, several kilometers away, blocking everything from view.
Giant eagle-like beasts circled in the sky, and silver-armored guards, strong and formidable, patrolled as gusts of wind swept through.
Waterfalls cascaded, rivers wound around, and waves surged endlessly. A vast expanse of land stretched out before him.
"The Holy City..."
Chen Feng stood at the edge of a green swamp, beneath the shadow of a tree, gazing into the distance.
A sacred place in the hearts of ordinary people in this world, and the suspected source of the Seed of Life Method.
Yet, whether from his previous experience or the residual memories, he had discovered one thing.
The Holy City might not be as 'holy' as it seemed.
Shaking his head, he turned his gaze to the black buildings outside the city walls, beyond the mountains and rivers.
This trip was solely for the Seed of Life awakening method.
The Holy City was home to countless experts, and this method was a crucial cultivation technique. He wasn't sure if the people inside would cooperate.
So, he thought of one person.
That curly-haired woman named Molly.
He had saved her and the group of fugitives. Now, asking for this method was more than justified, and he had a better chance of success.
With that, he took a step forward.
He didn't summon the Holy Shield Colossus but instead wrapped himself in a brown robe and walked across the muddy ground.
"Tsk tsk, outsider."
"You've finally come again."
Suddenly, a voice rang in his ears.
A chill ran down his spine, and the Steel Bones on Chen Feng's back rapidly grew.
Ding!!!
A sharp, metallic sound rang out as the dark golden Steel Bones showed faint cracks.
Chen Feng's eyes flashed with killing intent. His right arm swung in a sweeping punch.
Thud!!
A dull explosion sounded as the hooded serpent man, who had emerged from the shadows beneath his feet, was sent flying by the punch.
The black-purple hooded cloak bore two serpent patterns.
The arm covered in black scales held a black short sword, dark and deep, its hardness no less than Titanium.
Seeing this, Chen Feng's expression turned serious. He was surprised that at such close range, he hadn't sensed any anomaly beforehand.
Whoosh whoosh whoosh!
Before he could think further, the sound of rushing air came from all directions.
From the shadows of the trees near the green swamp, black Giant Pythons emerged.
They seemed real yet illusory.
In just a breath, the serpents lunged, one after another.
All sunlight was blocked out, leaving only crimson Force transforming into pillars of flame, burning everything.
Boom boom boom boom!!!
The serpent bodies exploded, dispersing into black spiritual light.
The Force pillars circled in the air, and Chen Feng's palms came together. A green-gold color silently spread, covering most of his body from left to right.
Seeing this, the hooded serpent man with the black short sword narrowed his eyes.
"Interesting."
Whoosh whoosh whoosh!
As he spoke, several more hooded figures rushed out from the green swamp, their auras strong—three fourth-tier serpent men.
They surrounded Chen Feng from all sides.
Chen Feng narrowed his eyes, his face the only part not yet covered by the Azure Armor.
"Did you know I would come?"
He suspected it was because he had left from here last time, which led to this ambush.
As for language, he awkwardly mimicked the local pronunciation.
"You outsiders who covet the Serpent God's power are all the same."
The hooded serpent man sneered, unsurprised that Chen Feng could speak their language so quickly. Instead, his tone was disdainful as he played with the short sword in his hand.
Chen Feng narrowed his eyes.
"You all?"
"Enough, no need to waste words on such a lowly being."
One of the fourth-tier serpent men lowered his hood, revealing a fierce serpent head covered in brown scales.
"Hurry up, cripple him and take him away. We don't want to alert the outcasts from the Holy City."
"Got it."
The black-scaled serpent man nodded, a cruel smile on his face.
"Let's follow the usual rules—one blessing from the Serpent God for each of us."
"No prob—"
Whoosh!
A sharp, piercing sound suddenly rang out. A green-gold horn covered Chen Feng's head, and blood-striped wings cut through the air.
Thud!!!
The brown-scaled serpent man, who had been speaking, was struck in the chest by a heavy punch. His vertical pupils flickered as his legs dragged across the ground, sending him flying far away.
The other two companions frowned and moved to attack, while the black-scaled serpent man's smile faded as he vanished from his spot.
"Outsider, you truly are despicable..."
As the voice rang out, the long shadow on the muddy ground rippled like water.
The black short sword appeared from behind, shifting between illusion and reality, aiming straight for Chen Feng's back.
Buzz!
In an instant, it was as if the world had paused.
Chen Feng's heightened senses activated, and everything around him slowed down as if in a frame-by-frame lag.
The short sword gleamed with faint arcs of light, and the rippling shadows revealed the hooded figure's cruel, mocking vertical pupils.
The next moment.
Thud!!!
Thick azure-gold arms swung down with precision, striking the hooded figure's head.
Scales shattered as the figure was sent flying, crashing through several thick trees.
Bang bang bang!!!
The sounds echoed continuously. Chen Feng didn't even glance aside, the black light on his horn rapidly gathering.
Seeing this, the other two fourth-tier serpent men's expressions changed.
"Attack together!"
Thud!
The ground shook as they stomped forward, charging from both sides.
Their scale-covered hands each held a sharp curved blade. Chen Feng suddenly felt the ground beneath his feet sinking, the mud clinging to him like quicksand, binding him in place.
"Die!!"
A furious roar came from the distance—it was the brown-scaled serpent man who had been sent flying earlier.
Chen Feng's senses clearly showed that the scales on the man's chest were covered in shattered rock. His serpentine hands were buried in the ground, as if controlling the surrounding terrain.
At the same moment, the black-scaled serpent man, who had been sent flying, suddenly vanished mid-air.
Whoosh whoosh whoosh!!!
Shadows flickered as if black lines were darting through the air.
He reappeared behind Chen Feng, a bloodthirsty grin on his face, the short sword aimed straight for Chen Feng's back.
"It's over, outsider."
The crisis loomed large, but Chen Feng remained silent.
Cold light enveloped his entire body, targeting every vital point. A faint white glow began to emerge from his hands.
I only came to find the Seed of Life awakening method.
I only wanted to become stronger.
"Why... do you force me?"
(End of the Chapter)
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