N to 19
Chapter 10: Unlocking Two Divine Meridians
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
In the face of Lu Bing’s threats, Lu Ming calmly ordered, “piss off, a good dog doesn’t block the way!”
“You have a death wish?! Shatter his mouth!” Lu Bing howled furiously.
“Yes, Young Master Bing!”
The two men behind Lu Bing were young and fit, around sixteen years of age, and like Lu Bing, were from the Fifth Branch.
As they draw nearer to Lu Ming, one of them jeered, “Lu Ming, do you still think that you’re the heir of the Blood Meridian of the Lu Family? the young master of the Lu’s? You’re nothing but a piece of trash, trash that’s not even fit enough to be considered a servant. We’ll help wake you up so you can see yourself clearly. You cannot afford to bark up the wrong tree.”
“Young Master!” Qiu Yue’s petite face whitened with fear, holding Lu Ming’s sleeves tightly in her hands.
“Fear not, nothing but two dogs and you think your young master wouldn’t be able to handle it?” answered Lu Ming with a smile as he nuzzled Qiu Yue’s head.
Without a doubt, the two young men heard these words too.
There and then...
“Trash!”
“You want to die?”
The two of them roared and leaped towards Lu Ming, with their punches aimed towards Lu Ming’s face with such force it carried a whistle like the wind.
They may be Ordinary Martial Artists, but one of them had unlocked seven meridians, and the other, eight. As they joined forces, it was enough to be a force to be reckoned with.
The two men, along with Lu Bing, had a smirk on their faces, as though they could already see Lu Ming’s face bruised and swollen like a pig’s head.
“Piss back to where you came from!”
Right before the punches landed, Lu Ming bellowed and he delivered a slap.
That slap was as fast as lightning, and before they knew it, “Pa Pa”, two cries were heard as two silhouettes, along with a bunch of teeth and blood, flew a distance and crashed heavily on the ground.
“My face, my teeth!” The two men wailed as they were on the ground, with cheeks that swelled as high as a building, teeth from their mouth half missing , and blood flowing out non-stop.
Lu Bing was stunned and looked at Lu Ming, flabbergasted.
Lu Ming, that trash, defeated his mighty men with a slap? How was that possible?
“Lu Bing, you would not stop calling me trash, and you threatened to destroy my mouth. Now, two of your dogs are done with their mouth redecoration, you’re up next,” said Lu Ming icily as he stared at Li Bing.
“Lu Ming, I don’t know what type of blind luck you have in obtaining some treasures and gifts, enabling you to cultivate with such progress. But surely you don’t think that since you’ve defeated these two pieces of trash, you’ll have a chance against me? How naive, I AM a Blood Meridian Martial Artist.”
Lu Bing took a deep breath to calm himself down.
So what if Lu Ming was able to cultivate? Lu Ming was nothing but an Ordinary Martial Artist who cannot awaken their blood meridians, while he was a Blood Meridian Martial Artist with an awakened Second Level blood meridian.
“Lu Ming, now I shall show you what it means to be a Blood Meridian Martial Artist.”
Lu Bing let out a roar and behind him, red lights flashed and instantly a majestic, gigantic wolf as red as fire appeared above his head.
“Flaming Wolf Fist!”
Lu Bing took a step forward as he howled, and pounced towards Lu Ming like a wolf.
“Peak of top Novice Realm, Second Level blood meridian? I’d like to see how strong it is!”
Lu Ming’s eyes flashed brightly.
On his toes, Lu Ming twisted his torso and used the Flaming Dragon Fist.
Bam!
Lu Ming’s and Lu Bing’s fists collided.
Snap!
After the commotion, the sound of bones snapping could be heard clearly.
Right after, Lu Bing flew backward at a speed faster than he came and fell heavily to the ground, clutching his right arm and yelling in pain.
“Is this all a Blood Meridian Martial Artist is capable of?”
Lu Ming smirked in disdain, and inched towards Lu Bing with an icy gaze.
Lu Bing was horrified. As he was squirming backward he yelled, “What do you want, Lu Ming? Don’t fool around, I warn you!”
“Nothing much, just robbing you. Now, give me all the valuable things you have on you!”
Lu Ming’s eyes flashed as he said it.
“Don’t even think about it!” howled Lu Bing.
“Oh, if that’s the case, I have no choice but to ruin your mouth then,” taunted Lu Ming as he raised his foot, about to stomp on Lu Bing’s face.
Seeing how Lu Ming was not joking, Lu Bing was finally afraid. He yelled, “wait, I will, I’ll give you all my valuables.”
Honestly, Lu Bing had quite a lot of money on him. He totaled up about three thousand taels and painfully gave it up to Lu Ming.
“That’s it?!”
Lu Ming sulked and kept the money with a look of distaste.
Lu Bing nearly vomited blood upon hearing it. Three thousand taels and Lu Ming thought it was little? As a descendent of the Lu Family, it was quite an achievement to have three thousand taels with him.
“I’ll let you go this time, but if there’s a next time, it’s not something a few taels of silver can settle.” Lu Ming glared coldly and left Lu BIng with those words, bringing a stunned Qiu Yue with him.
Lu Bing was, after all, the son of the Fifth Branch leader, and if Lu Ming truly did something to him, the Fifth Branch leader would not let it go.
Lu Ming was unafraid, but he could not help but to think of Li Ping and Qiu Yue.
“Damn it, Young Master Bing, that little Lu Ming was so arrogant! Let’s go back and tell the branch leader, and ask him to give Lu Ming a lesson.”
One of the young men, who was missing a few teeth, hobbled to Lu Bing’s side and heatedly suggested.
“You idiot, isn’t this humiliating enough? If anyone else were to know that I was defeated by Lu Ming the trash, would I still have my reputation? I warn you two, what happened here today stays here,” chided Lu Bing.
“Yes, yes, Young Master Bing, we won’t say a word. The two men nodded furiously.
“Huff!”
Lu Bing huffed indifferently and said, “The House Meeting is in exactly one month. Now that the little Lu Ming can cultivate, he will, without a doubt, go up against Lu Yao for a fight. Then, First Elder and his men will simply take action against Lu Ming. Why do we need to dirty our hands?”
“Great idea, Young Master Bing,” flattered the two sidekicks.
Right then, they left the scene quietly.
Just as they left, an attractively slender body appeared suddenly in the alley.
If it was not Mu Lan, who else could it be?
“Heh heh, interesting, now I know it’s the Lu Family’s infamous Young Lord trash. Looks like you’ve deceived everyone!”
A hushed voice rang and in a blip, Mu Lan disappeared without a trace.
....
Back at home, after giving Qiu Yue the Health-replenishing Pills, Lu Ming went back to his room and entered the Supreme Shrine.
Immediately, Lu Ming started swallowing Dragon Tiger Pills and began his unlocking of the second divine meridian.
It was way more difficult to unlock the second divine meridian than the first.
This time, it took Lu Ming forty-five Mediocre First Level Dragon Tiger Pills and a total of five days to unlock the second divine meridian.
Once the second divine meridian was unlocked, the Essential Qi within Lu Ming swelled up another notch.
“I should now pack a bull’s strength with the explosion of my Essential Qi alone, I guess!”
At First Grade Warrior Realm, Ordinary Martial Artists will achieve up to a bull’s strength of power with the explosion of their Essential Qi, and the power of Essential Qi explosion that Lu Ming now wielded was no less than that of a First Grade Warrior Realm martial artist.
“Now, to continue.”
Lu Ming went on to unlock the third divine meridian.
The third divine meridian was also the hardest.
It took Lu Ming a whole ten days, and he consumed seventy Dragon Tiger Pill to finally unlock the third divine meridian.
When the third divine meridian was opened up, the light spots on Lu Ming’s body lit up one by one, and when all a hundred and eight acupuncture points were lit up, it was like the stars in the sky, shining, and shimmering brightly.
A hundred and eight big acupuncture points and the twelve meridians formed a perfect loop. Continuous waves of thickened, elevated Essential Qi soared within Lu Ming’s meridians.
“So powerful, three unlocked divine meridian is so much more powerful when compared to two unlocked divine meridians?”
Analyzing the energy coursing within him, Lu Ming was delighted.
Three unlocked divine meridians and two unlocked divine meridians, even if it was just one meridian apart, the vast difference between the two was as different as Heaven and Earth.
Three divine meridians represented perfection, two divine meridians would still be flawed.
Lu Ming felt that he could currently gather an Essential Qi whirl in his dantian and leap into the Warrior’s Realm at any given time.
“Not yet, I’ve not gotten the Second Stage of the True War Dragon Technique!”
Lu Ming forcefully suppressed his desire to leap into Warrior Realm, set his gaze upon the second platform beyond the ninety-nine steps.
“This time, I should be able to go up now, right?”
Lu Ming got up and walked towards the second platform.
Instantaneously, he was on the ninety-ninth step. He was hindered here the last time.
This time, there was no hindrance at all. In a step, Lu Ming ascended onto the second platform.Chapter 11: Completed Meridian
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
There was also a chest on the second platform, although it was made of bronze instead.
Lu Ming opened the box. There were two manuals and a jade box inside.
One of the manuals was made of something suspiciously similar to gold instead of paper. It was probably over a hundred pages long, but it seemed like it was weightless when held in hand, as if he was holding a cloud.
There were four words written on top. ‘True War Dragon Technique’.
Lu Ming frantically flipped its pages to read it in detail.
“So it seems that this isn’t the just Second Stage of the True War Dragon Technique, it’s the entire technique!” Lu Ming’s eyes sparkled.
As he continued flipping through the pages, his smile grew wider and wider.
Based on what was recorded, the True War Dragon Technique on the first platform was not technically a “First Stage”, but rather the introduction of the technique. It was mainly utilized to build a foundation, and open up the three divine meridians more easily.
From here on out was the real start of the True War Dragon Technique.
The technique was layered into nine Stages.
The dragon-shaped Essential Qi condensed from the True War Dragon Technique was more viscous compared to the Essential Qi from normal cultivation.
From what the records said, as long as the First Stage of the technique was achieved, the Essential Qi that was condensed would be twice as viscous as normal Qi.
Achieving the Second Stage would produce three times the viscosity. Based on that logic, if the Ninth Stage was achieved, the viscosity of the condensed Qi would be ten times that of normal Qi.
Lu Ming was ecstatic. Ten times? What was this concept? It was comparing steel with deadwood. A single strike of steel would shatter the deadwood into million pieces.
It was horrifying. Truly, a Divine Level technique.
But the difficulties of cultivating it successfully could not be slighted as well.
Putting the Ninth Stage aside, the conditions of achieving the First Stage was to open up the three divine meridians, or successfully cultivating it would be impossible.
It was no wonder that the introduction to the True War Dragon Technique on the first platform stated that the three divine meridians had to be open for the user to cultivate the technique that followed.
That was merely the First Stage. A plethora of materials were required to assist in the cultivation of the Second Stage. They were all extremely rare materials, some which Lu Ming had never even heard of.
“I’ll deal with that when I get to it. To be able to cultivate the First Stage and achieve Essential Qi with twice the viscosity of normal Qi would be a terrifying feat in itself.
Excitement sparked in Lu Ming’s eyes. He carefully read the True War Dragon Technique once and picked up the other book.
The Lustrous Sword Technique was a Superior Yellow Level sword technique. If successfully cultivated, a sword would seem like a never ending stream of light that was as swift as lightning.
This was actually a Superior Yellow Level martial technique! Even the most precious martial technique of the Lu Family only was of Superior Yellow Level.
There was also a jade box, with the words ‘Spirit Soul Pill’ written on it.
The Spirit Soul Pill was a Third Level medicine pill that was worth at least tens of thousands of silver taels. There was a demand for it, but no supply, as it could rapidly advance one’s cultivation, making it extremely useful for people in the Master Realm, let alone the Warrior Realm.
“First, it was the Marrow-cleansing Pill, and now it’s the Spirit Soul Pill. They’re all useful for me.”
Lu Ming suppressed the joy in his head as his expression changed into one of contemplation.
He had a feeling that this was arranged by someone. How else could he explain how everything was useful to him?
How peculiar.
When he could not come to a conclusion, he shook his head. There was no point in thinking over it if he could not figure it out. Instead, he cast his gaze towards the third platform.
If the first and second platforms carried such treasures, what would he discover on the third platform?
There were still ninety-nine steps to the third platform. As expected, there was a force blocking Lu Ming’s way when he reached the ninety-ninth step.
Unlike what he thought, there were no chests on the third platform. It was empty, except for a stone stand in the middle of the platform. He could not make out its use.
“I’m looking forward to it!”
Lu Ming’s had a burning curiosity for the third platform, and the others that followed. However, there was nothing he could do as he was unable to ascend. Lu Ming shook his head and returned to the second platform, where he started circulating the True War Dragon Technique.
It was time for him to step into Warrior Realm.
Essential Qi was circulating in all twelve meridians. His one hundred and eight acupuncture points lit up as the surging Essential Qi finally gathered in his dantian.
Woosh... Woosh...
A cyclone suddenly formed in his dantian, spinning at a rapid speed. The Essential Qi in his meridians gravitated towards the cyclone.
The cycle started out big, but hazy like a mist. As time passed, the Qi cyclone shrunk in size as it became more dense. In the end, it was like a solid object that was clear and visible.
Woo...
A sound akin to dragons rang out. Inside Lu Ming’s body, his Essential Qi were like small miniature dragons that swam in the vortex and his meridians. Lu Ming’s aura had strengthened considerably.
He had stepped into Warrior Realm!
Lu Ming had finally entered Warrior Realm.
The True War Dragon Technique had been naturally cultivated to the First Stage.
Woosh!
Lu Ming opened his eyes and let out a long breath. The breath was like a pillar of gas, shooting out for meters before it dispersed.
Rumble!
Lu Ming suddenly stood up. He struck the air with his fists, which suddenly exploded like a bomb, ringing non-stop.
“Such a strong power. How strong am I right now? The Second Grade Warrior Realm? Or is it the Third Grade?”
Lu Ming had already surpassed human limits after he opened up the three divine meridians, but his Qi was twice as viscous compared to normal Qi after cultivating the First Stage of the True War Dragon Technique.
Lu Ming had no idea how strong his explosive power now was.
Lu Ming then cast his gaze towards the Spirit Soul Pill.
“At the moment, my rate of cultivation has been too fast and needs consolidation, so it isn’t suitable for me to consume the Spirit Soul Pill. There’s still eighteen days before the House Meeting. It should be enough. I’ll wait until the House Meeting is right around the corner before I take the Spirit Soul Pill. I’ll have a better chance at the House Meeting that way.”
Lu Ming clenched his fists. He was brimming with confidence as he felt the immense power within his body.
In the days that came, Lu Ming consolidated his cultivation as he cultivated several martial skills, especially the Lustrous Sword Technique.
In the blink of an eye, half a month had passed by.
There were only three days left before the House Meeting.
Within that time period, though Lu Ming’s blood meridian had not grown, its rate of absorbing any surrounding spirit energy had increased. Now, it could actually go toe to toe with a Third Level blood meridian.
Along with the True War Dragon Technique, if Lu Ming had cultivated normally, his absorption rate could be compared to a Fourth Level blood meridian.
In the span of half a month, not only had Lu Ming’s cultivation solidified, but it was also advancing at a stable pace.
He had already reached the top of First Grade Warrior Realm.
In terms of martial techniques, the Flame Dragon Fist was still on the Fourth Stage, the “Mastery of Technique” stage.
The farther one advanced in martial skills, the harder it would be to improve. There were people who were unable to advance to the “Mastery of Technique” stage for Inferior Yellow Level martial arts techniques.
However, the Dragon Serpent Steps had improved, advancing to the Fourth Stage, the “Mastery of Technique” stage.
The Lustrous Sword Technique, which was of Superior Yellow Level, was even harder to cultivate.
In half a month’s time, Lu Ming had only cultivated it to the Second Stage with the help of the chanting. It was a small accomplishment.
Lu Ming was seated on a stone stool in the center of the courtyard. He brewed a cup of tea, which he was leisurely sipping.
After cultivating for so long, Lu Ming wanted to relax a little before making a final push.
“Young Master! Young Master! I bear good news!”
The moment she finished her sentence, an adorable and pleasant maiden appeared before Lu Ming’s eyes.
It was Qiu Yue.Chapter 12: Lu Ming’s Shock
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
However, Qiu Yue had changed quite a bit compared to how she looked half a month ago.
She had been consuming the Health-replenishing Pill for the past half month and was no longer skinny and weak like before.
Qiu Yue’s face was clear and pretty like a blooming flower, complementing her rosy complexion. She looked absolutely beautiful and charming.
She appeared graceful and pleasant and was certainly born to be a beauty.
“What’s the good news?” Lu Ming asked with a smile.
“Young Master, you’ve only been focusing on your cultivation, without ever bothering to check on me. Allow me to tell you that I’ve opened up four meridians!”
1
Qiu Yue leaned towards Lu Ming’s ear and murmured. A faint fragrance wafted into Lu Ming’s nose. It was a pleasant smell.
Pfft!
However, Lu Ming was not in the right mood to enjoy it. His eyes nearly popped out as he spat a mouthful of tea. He looked at Qiu Yue incredulously and asked, “Qiu Yue, what did you say? You’ve already opened up four meridians?”
“Yep. Is it that weird, Young Master? It didn’t take much effort for the meridians to open up,” Qiu Yue asked curiously as she blinked her eyes.
The corners of Lu Ming’s lips started to tremble ever so slightly.
He clearly remembered when Qiu Yue was nursing her health around ten days ago. It was only three days before Lu Ming passed the Qi Condensation Art down to Qiu Yue, and taught her how to open her meridians.
It had only been three days, but Qiu Yue had already opened up four meridians. Her blood meridian was not awakened yet, and she was even using the useless Qi Condensation Art. It was truly inconceivable!
4
Moreover, what did “it didn’t take much effort” even mean? Was she trying to drive him mad?
Was it possible that Qiu Yue was actually a prodigy in cultivating martial arts? Lu Ming’s heart started to burn.
“It was nothing. Can you feel the energy from your blood meridian, Qiu Yue?” Lu Ming coughed and asked.
“The power of my blood meridian... I can’t feel it. I wonder why?”
Qiu Yue was a little confused herself.
Lu Ming pondered for a moment. “Qiu Yue, come to my room, I’ll check it out for you,” he said.
“Mm, sure!” Qiu Yue nodded.
The two of them entered Lu Ming’s room and sat on the bed.
“Alright, let’s start.”
Lu Ming smiled as he stretched out his palms and placed it on Qiu Yue’s back, then gradually infused Essential Qi into her spine.
He slowly shifted his palm up Qiu Yue’s back in order to stimulate her blood meridian and check its condition.
It was at this moment that Lu Ming’s expression changed. He felt a huge resistance in Qiu Yue’s spine that was stopping him from circulating his Essential Qi.
“What’s happening?”
Lu Ming furrowed his brows and increased the amount of Essential Qi being infused.
Something strange occurred right at that moment.
A blinding flash of blood-red suddenly burst from Qiu Yue’s spine. A strong force came surging out from her spine, shooting towards Lu Ming.
Lu Ming was unable to resist this force. With a thunderous boom, he was thrown to the wall by the force.
At that instant, the red flash from Qiu Yue’s spine disappeared as if nothing had ever happened.
“Young Master!”
Qiu Yue was startled, she quickly got off the bed and went to lift Lu Ming up.
“I’m fine!”
Lu Ming stood up. Except for his bubbling Qi and blood, he was fine.
Although the force that surged from her spine was strong, it was not fatal.
“As long as you’re fine, Young Master. You almost scared me to death!” Qiu Yue said as she gave herself a pat.
However, Lu Ming furrowed his eyebrows. He was sure that there was a blood meridian present in Qiu Yue, but it was unusual that it would generate a surge of power to blast him away; definitely unheard of.
Seeing Lu Ming furrowing his eyebrows, she knew that he was fretting over her blood meridian. “Young Master, if I’m unable to awaken my blood meridian, so be it. Ah, right, I’ll prepare food for you and the Lady,” Qiu Yue said gently.
Qiu Yue opened the door and left after she finished talking.
Lu Ming pondered for a while after Qiu Yue left. He had no choice but to push it aside as he could not figure it out. He could only read up on some ancient journals to check if there were similar records when he had the time.
1
He returned to his room after the meal and returned to the Supreme Shrine once again.
There were only two days left before the House Meeting. Lu Ming planned to consume the Spirit Soul Pill to make the final push.
The Spirit Soul Pill was a Third Level medicine pill. It was impossible for a normal person to completely refine it as all medicine contained poison and impurities. It would take time to refine the toxin within one’s body. However, it was not a problem for Lu Ming.
He started circulating the True War Dragon Technique after consuming the Spirit Soul Pill.
A strong gravitation from his spine absorbed the Spirit Soul Pill’s effects and refined energy gushed out.
The Qi cyclone in his dantian started turning rapidly and absorbed the energy.
Lu Ming’s cultivation was increasing rapidly.
Two days passed in the blink of an eye.
The House Meeting had finally come.
“Lu Yao, First Branch Elder, I will shock all of you.”
Lu Ming stopped cultivating and opened his eyes. He felt the Essential Qi surging within his body as he sneered ever so slightly.
He left the Supreme Shrine and headed towards the courtyard.
“Eh? Why aren’t Mother and Qiu Yue around?”
He looked around and realized Li Ping and Qiu Yue were not there.
It was impossible. Today was the House Meeting, Li Ping and Qiu Yue would definitely have been waiting for him there.
“Hurry up! Wash quickly! Clean the toilet too after you finished washing all these clothes!”
At that moment, a sharp sound that sounded like a duck sounded from next door.
Lu Ming’s current residence was originally for servants. Hence, it was natural that the next room was where servants lived and worked.
“You guys are stepping over the line! It’s one thing for you to make us wash clothes, but for you to ask to clean the toilets! My Lady is the spouse of the Lord! This is too much, I’m reporting you guys to the Elder Council!”
At that moment, a yell rang out.
Boom!
The yell sounded like a thunder crash right next to Lu Ming’s ears. His eyes instantly went red as anger shot to the top of his head.
As the scream was from Qiu Yue, then the Lady that she referred to must have been his mother, Li Ping.
These servants dared to make Li Ping and Qiu Yue wash their clothes, and to make it worse, clean the toilet! They deserved to die!
Lu Ming twisted his body and rushed towards the next door.Chapter 13: Raging Fury
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
At that moment, Li Ping and Qiu Yue were washing clothes at the side of the courtyard next to their residence.
There was a huge pile of clothes worn by the Lu Family in front of them.
A fat middle-aged man who fashioned a mustache on his face had two strong and buff men standing behind him.
The fat man, Duan San, was the housekeeper to the First Branch Elder.
At that moment, Duan San was in stitches. He fixed his gaze on Qiu Yue and Li Ping. “Oh my, you guys are thinking of reporting me to the Elder Council? Such wishful thinking! Spouse of the Lord? Bullsh*t! Once the day is over, Lady Lu Yao will succeed as the Lord. You guys will be nothing then.
1
“Let me tell you both, you’ll be soon dealing with this kind of work every day, so you’d best practice right now.”
“D-don’t even think about it! My Young Master won’t let you have your way!” Qiu Yue’s face was flushed with anger and shouted as she pointed at Duan San.
“That piece of trash, Lu Ming? Hahaha, you’re actually still expecting that trash to save both of you? Don’t even dream about it! Were it not because I couldn’t find him today, he’d be the one cleaning the toilets right now!”
Duan San let out an unpleasant sharp laugh. His beady eyes flashed lustfully as he scanned Qiu Yue’s body. “I never thought that you would become so pretty after missing you for some time. How about this, you can come to my room and serve me. If I’m satisfied with your service, I might consider letting you two off on cleaning the toilets!
“Don’t even think about it!” Qiu Yue’s face turned pale, she subconsciously took two steps back.
Duan San’s face turned cold. “Don’t even think about it? But I want to do it. Take this girl and bring her to my room.”
“Roger!” The two muscular men behind Duan San responded.
“No, don’t! I beg you, Housekeeper Duan, let Qiu Yue go, I will do any chore you ask me to, please just let Qiu Yue go!”
Li Ping stood in front of Qiu Yue to protect her as she looked at Duan San pleadingly.
“Scram!” The two muscular men shouted. One of them swung his palm towards Li Ping.
Right at that moment...
Bam!
The courtyard’s door suddenly burst open, sending wood shrapnel flying everywhere.
It happened so suddenly that the two muscular men stopped their actions. Everyone’s gaze was drawn to the door.
A young figure stepped into the courtyard.
“Lu Ming, it’s you?” You came at the right time, go clean the toilets now.”
Duan San let out a breath and sneered the moment he saw Lu Ming.
The youth was indeed Lu Ming.
Lu Ming did not even glance at Duan San. He walked towards Li Ping in a few steps and asked, “Mother, are you alright?”
“Mother is fine, Ming’er, why did you come? We can handle this, you should leave quickly,” Li Ping said anxiously.
Lu Ming shook his head and said, “Mother, I was late, I will never let you experience any unfairness from now on.”
“Lu Ming! I’m talking to you, trash! Do you hear me?” Duan San sounded behind Lu Ming.
Lu Ming slowly turned and glared at Duan San with a gaze that was as cool as ice, as if his eyes were that of a demon from hell. The current situation sparked an incomparable fury inside Lu Ming. It filled his chest and was about to explode at any given time.
The burning fury turned into chilling murderous intent. An emotionless sentence parted Lu Ming’s lips. “Duan San, you deserve to die!”
The cold look in Lu Ming’s eyes chilled Duan San’s heart. However, as soon as he remembered that Lu Ming was merely trash, he picked up his courage and glared fiercely. “Lu Ming, how dare you threaten me! You’re courting death! Break his limbs!” he shouted.
“Roger!” That two muscular men glared ferociously and made a move, grabbing Lu Ming by his arms.
The two strong men were at the peak of mid Novice Realm.
“Ming’er!” Li Ping was frightened.
Duan San could not stop sneering.
Snap! Snap!
The sound of bones snapping rang out twice followed by two piercing screams. Duan San froze and it startled Li Ping.
This was because the screaming came from the muscular men.
All it took was for Lu Ming to hold on to their wrists, and the bones were ground into powder.
“Ah! Ah! My hand!” The two muscular men could not stop screaming from the pain.
Boom! Boom!
Lu Ming’s Essential Qi spewed out and surged into the bodies of the two muscular men. They mumbled for a moment before being sent flying and crashing onto the ground before they even took their last breaths.
Their organs were severely damaged by Lu Ming.
Only at that moment did Duan San react to the situation. “Lu Ming, how dare you?! They were under the First Branch Elder, and you dare to kill them?! You’re courting death!”
“You’re the one who’ll die.”
Lu Ming scoffed, He took a step forward and threw a punch at Duan San.
The moment he threw the punch, a wild jet of Essential Qi spurted out and enveloped Duan San.
The Essential Qi was so strong, Duan San felt as if he was plunged into an icy chasm.
Bam!
As he finished his sentence, Lu Ming’s fist landed squarely on Duan San’s belly.
Duan San cried out in pain. His stout body landed heavily on the ground like a carcass of a pig being thrown out, forming a cloud of dust.
“Ah, Ah. Lu Ming, if you cripple my cultivation, Miss Lu Yao and the First Branch Elder will never forgive you.” Duan San yelped desperately.
1
“Is that so?”
Lu Ming walked towards Duan San and violently stomped on his leg.
Snap!
Duan San’s foot instantly snapped from the stomp.
He let out a miserable howl akin to the sound of a slaughtered pig, there were tears and snot flowing down his face.
Lu Ming’s eyes were cold as he gazed at Duan San. “You said you wanted my limbs broken a moment ago. Now, I’m going to break yours.”
The moment he finished talking, he stomped on Duan San’s other foot and broke its bones as well.
“Ah! Ah! My leg! Lu Ming, no, Young Master Ming, I beg of you to spare me! The First Branch Elder and Lu Chuan ordered me to do all of this, how would I dare to disobey them!”
Duan San howled miserably.
“The First Branch Elder and Lu Chuan?”
Lu Ming’s glare was icy cold. He then consecutively stomped his foot on Duan San’s arms and instantly broke them, then turned around and walked towards Li Ping and Qiu Yue.
“Ming’er, is that your cultivation?”
Right at that moment, Li Ping stared at Lu Ming excitedly as tears welled in her eyes.
“Mother, your son has experienced a miracle in this period of time. I’ll go into details later, let’s head to the training field now,” Lu Ming said.
Li Ping’s expression changed. “Ming’er... the training field? The First Branch Elder and Lu Yao are over there, you’d best be not too impulsive!”
2
Although Lu Ming’s cultivation had improved tremendously over this period of time, was he strong enough to go against Lu Yao?
Not only did Lu Yao awaken a Fifth Level blood meridian, but she also had marital ties with the Mystical Sword Sect’s Duanmu Family. Li Ping heard that during that period, the Duanmu Family delivered a slew of valuable pills to her while she concentrated on cultivating behind closed doors.
1
Naturally, she was worried about Lu Ming.
A gentle yet confident smile formed on Lu Ming’s lips. “Fret not, mother. Lu Yao will not take the title of Lu Family’s Lord, nor will anyone else. The title belongs to Father, if anyone tries to lay a finger on it, I’ll chop that finger off!”
“My Lady, don’t worry, Young Master can do it.”
Qiu Yue agreed.
The three of them headed towards the Lu Family’s training field.Chapter 14: House Meeting Commences
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
The Lu Family’s training field was located on the eastern side of the Lu Family Residence. It was extremely spacious and had no trouble accommodating a hundred thousand people.
In the middle of the training field, there was an enormous platform that was made from stainless steel rocks that spanned two hundred meters in width and length.
There were majestic grandstands built on the northern, eastern, and western sides of the training field.
The northern grandstand was the main grandstand, reserved for the Lu Family. The eastern and western grandstands were for influential families within Fiery Wind City.
At that moment, seven grey-haired elders sat on the very top of the grandstand. These elders were the seven Elders at the core of the Lu Family’s Elder Council.
The Core Elders in the Lu Family’s Elder Council were all handpicked by the family themselves as the most qualified and renowned members. They were all working for the sake of the Lu Family, which was why they were the most appropriate and would not be biased towards a particular branch; ultimately having the Lu Family’s best interest at heart.
Lu Yunxiong, the Lu Family’s First Branch Elder, was seated slightly further down below. At his side, a maiden around the age of fifteen was seated as well. Dressed in a snow-white dress, her beauty was simply indescribable. It was Lu Yao.
“First Branch Elder Lu, congratulations! I heard your daughter has unparalleled talent, awakening a Fifth Level blood meridian. Her future is limitless!”
The Li Family’s Lord, Li Fu, congratulated the First Branch Elder with flattery.
“Thank you,” the First Branch Elder replied simply.
All other families and renowned figures in the Fiery Wind City then approached the First Branch Elder to congratulate him.
The First Branch Elder simply nodded in acknowledgment.
Roar! Roar!
At that moment, the roars of wild beasts rang from a distant street. The sound pierced the skies as if there were tens of thousands of demons charging in.
After a moment, over ten giant blood-red tigers appeared in front of the audience. They were two meters tall and spanned a width over four meters.
A silhouette donned in a fiery red garb was seated on each giant tiger, and fierce aura along with scorching breath permeated the entire area.
“Flame Tigers. They’re from the White Tiger Hall, one of the Five Halls of the Mystical Sword Sect.”
“Could they be from the Duanmu Family’s Lord?”
1
There were exclamations coming from the crowd.
“For the White Tiger Hall to take the initiative in sending someone over, could they be aiming to recruit Lu Yao as a disciple?” Someone guessed.
The First Branch Elder stood up with a woosh and descended the grandstand, his face filled with excitement. “For the Mystical Sword Sect’s White Tiger Hall to pay a visit, it is my fault for not welcoming you outside the gates. Please forgive me!” he clasped his fists.
“Haha, you’re too courteous, First Branch Elder! I am Duanmu Qing, who works for the Mystical Sword Sect’s White Tiger Hall. I am here today to congratulate Lu Yao on the accession as the Lu Family’s Lord, and also to officially recruit Lu Yao as a disciple of the White Tiger Hall,” said a middle-aged man in a fiery red garb who was seated on the largest Flame Tiger.
“You are too polite, envoy. Please, take a seat,” the First Branch Elder replied with a smile on his face.
Duanmu Qing smiled. He and another two men dismounted from their Flame Tigers and arrived at the main grandstand. The other people directed their Flame Tigers to the side.
“It seems that Lu Yao does have terrifying talents. There’s still another two months before the Mystical Sword Sect officially recruits disciples, and people would normally be the ones to approach them. They would have to go through strict tests, and only the ones who passed would be able to join. It’s truly a rare sight for the Mystical Sword Sect to personally come and recruit someone.”
“Indeed! They say that Lu Yao has attracted the attention of a genius from the Duanmu Family of the Mystical Sword Sect. Her future looks really promising!”
“The Lu Family really got themselves an extraordinary genius this time, one that outshines even Lu Yuntian!”
The people all around were discussing heatedly.
Shriek!
At that moment, a loud, sharp cry resounded through the sky. Even if it was from a great distance, it could still be heard.
The crowd’s eyes involuntarily darted in that direction. Then, their eyes widened in awe.
There was a gigantic snow-white goshawk with a wingspan of fifty meters.
It had talons as pointed as blades, and its eyes were extremely sharp. The crowd shivered and broke into a sweat as the goshawk scanned its eyes across the people.
Several figures stood atop the goshawk.
“A silent snow goshawk. It’s a silent snow goshawk from the Mystical Sword Sect’s Vermillion Bird Hall.”
“Even the Vermillion Bird Hall has arrived!”
The crowd exclaimed.
“I am Liu Qian from the Mystical Sword Sect’s Vermillion Bird Hall. I have come today representing the Vermillion Bird Hall to recruit Lu Yao as a disciple,” said a lady around the age of thirty, gracefully perched atop the silent snow goshawk.
1
Sstttt...
At that moment, an immense flying snake soared over from a distance. It had a fierce aura that seeped through the entire place.
“Haha, Duanmu Qing, Liu Qian, your halls are pretty quick to take action. I am Tie Zhong from the Mystical Sword Sect’s Azure Dragon Hall, representing my hall to recruit Miss Lu Yao as a disciple.”
“I am Gao Shi from the Onyx Tortoise Hall, representing my hall to recruit Miss Lu Yao as a disciple.” Another voice followed.
The empire Lu Ming was in was named the Blazing Sun Empire.
The Blazing Sun Empire occupied a vast amount of land. Fiery Wind City was but a mere town in comparison to the empire. The total cities that the empire governed amounted to at least ten thousand.
There were five sects in the entire Blazing Sun Empire, they were predominant forces that were at the top of the ladder. Conveniently situated at the center of the Blazing Sun Empire, they were the ones governing the empire.
The Mystical Sword Sect occupied a vast amount of territory within the Blazing Sun Empire. Fiery Wind City was situated in the easternmost spot of the empire, which was within the jurisdiction of the Mystical Sword Sect.
The Mystical Sword Sect was divided into five halls, namely the Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Onyx Tortoise, Vermillion Bird, and Qilin.
The Duanmu Family was the main family from the White Tiger Hall of the Mystical Sword Sect.
Although the five halls were from the same sect, there was bound to be an open competition and covert struggles.
As such, each hall would naturally want to recruit a genius into their own ranks when one appeared.
The successive arrival of four halls caused a din.
“Goodness! Out of the Five Halls of the Mystical Sword Sect, there were four that came! All of them are looking to take Miss Lu Yao in as a disciple! Unbelievable!”
“I know right?! The Mystical Sword Sect oversees nearly two thousand cities. The five halls stand high above the masses, it’s rare of them to send a representative to recruit a disciple, but there’s four this time! Amazing, truly amazing!”
The surrounding crowd was discussing heatedly.
It was reasonable for the White Tiger Hall to send a representative to recruit Lu Yao as a disciple, as she had marital ties with the Duanmu Family from the White Tiger Hall.
However, there were three other halls who also sent someone over with the aim of recruiting Lu Yao as their disciple. It was a testament to Lu Yao’s impressive talent that had shocked even the other halls.
As four halls of the Mystical Sword Sect wanted to take Lu Yao as their disciple, the glow around her intensified.
“The three envoys, please take a seat.”
The First Branch Elder hurriedly invited the guests from the three halls to be seated. He could hardly contain his happiness.
He was brimming with happiness and had already predicted the arrival of the White Tiger Hall, but the arrival of three other halls was out of his expectations. This increased his reputation.
“Yao’er, this was all because of you.”
The First Branch Elder murmured as he clenched his fists. His emotions were surging.
He knew that the reason why four of the Five Halls would send someone right to their doorstep was all because of Lu Yao, his own daughter.
At that moment, he sighed emotionally. The three years of effort was not in vain. It was worth it.
“Vermillion Bird Hall, Azure Dragon Hall, and the Onyx Tortoise Hall, why are you here? Lu Yao belongs to us White Tiger Hall. Are you planning to snatch her away from us?”
Duanmu Qing was looking at the messengers from the other three halls. His expression seemed sour.
“Haha, Duanmu Qing, I know that Lu Yao already has marital ties with White Tiger Hall’s Duanmu Lin, but Miss Lu Yao might not want to choose the White Tiger Hall. We all belong to the Mystical Sword Sect, there isn’t any difference in choosing another hall, it all depends on adaptability.”
Azure Dragon Hall’s Tie Zhong laughed.
“Hmph, from how I see it, your efforts are in vain.” Duanmu Qing snorted.
The First Branch Elder, who was seated beside, was even more excited. The Lu Family’s house meeting had not even started yet, but the four halls were already fighting over Lu Yao. His face flushed at the thought of that.
At that moment, a scent of fragrance wafted over. A graceful figure approached, instantly attracting the attention of everyone.
“Hall Owner Mu, I did not think you would come. Please, take a seat.” The First Branch Elder quickly welcomed her.
She was the Hall Owner of the Elixir Hall, Mu Lan.
The Elixir Hall was backed by the Mystical Sword Sect. The First Branch Elder dared not to neglect her.
“Martial Aunt Mu, you’ve come as well.”
The Vermillion Hall’s Liu Qian hurriedly stepped forward for a salute, which startled many people as they started speculating. Mu Lan had quite the position in the Vermillion Bird Hall. Liu Qian was already over thirty years in age but was still addressing Mu Lan as her martial aunt.
2
“Yes, I came to watch the fun.”
“Why is she here?” The expression of the lot from the three other halls changed.
At that moment, Lu Ming, Li Ping, and Qiu Yue arrived among the crowd.Chapter 15: Farewell, Lu Yao
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
At that moment, a scholarly gentleman around the age of forty ascended the platform in the middle of the training field.
He was the leader of the Second Branch, as well as the Lu Family’s Second Branch Elder, Lu Yunfeng.
“In today’s house meeting, it is an immense honor for the Lu Family to have envoys of the Mystical Sword Sect present.”
Lu Yunfeng started off with conventional ceremonies, but he followed up with a sharp turn in topic. “So, young juniors of the Lu Family, you must do your best and give it your all. You might just catch the envoys’ attention and get recruited into the Mystical Sword Sect!”
As Lu Yunfeng finished his sentence, the breathing of the Lu Family’s youngsters quickened. They were getting worked up, preparing themselves for a fight.
In normal circumstances, the Mystical Sword Sect would only be open for recruits in two months, but when that happened, it would be a competition amongst nearly two thousand cities within the Blazing Sun Empire. The chances of winning were too small.
However, if they caught the interest of any envoys from the Mystical Sword Sect, they would instantly be recommended into the sect. It would be smooth sailing from then on.
The envoys on the main grandstand smiled. Making no retorts meant that they were in silent agreement. The eyes of the Lu Family’s youngsters shined brightly.
Lu Yunfeng saw that he had achieved his goals. A joyful look formed on his face as he announced, “Alright, the House Meeting officially starts now! This meeting will be divided into three sections. A test of resolve in the first, a test of meridians on the second, and a tournament for the last section.”
“As everybody knows, the road of a martial artist is filled with difficulties and challenges. One has to take a single step at a time. Without a strong will, it is impossible to go far on this road. For those who want to participate in the House Meeting, step up, and ascend the Flaming Steps!”
At the end of the speech, young boys and girls of the Lu Family approached the platform from the sides.
They were all the new youngsters of the Lu Family. The genders were mixed, but none of them were above the age of eighteen.
At that moment, Lu Yao’s figure rose on the main grandstand. Instantaneously, the entire crowd’s gaze focused on her.
Lu Yao was in a snow-white dress. She had a slim figure with desirable curves. Along with fair skin that was as smooth as jade and her perfect face, it was as if she was a fairy who walked out from a picture.
A gossiper had once said that Lu Yao was the fairest maiden in Fiery Wind City. It was truly not an exaggeration.
She walked towards the platform in the middle of the training field with soft graceful steps.
“Absolutely stunning!”
Many people exclaimed in their hearts.
Not only did Lu Yao stand out amongst the crowd, but she was also blessed with unparalleled talent.
“I heard that Lu Yao had already opened up nine meridians before awakening her blood meridian. The moment she awakened the Fifth Level meridian, she followed it up with a divine meridian. She should be even better now. There would really be no regrets left in life if anyone could be able to marry such a blessed girl.”
“I heard that Lu Yao has marital ties with the prodigy of the Duanmu Family, Duanmu Lin, from the White Tiger Hall. Perhaps only someone on Duanmu Lin’s level would be a match for her!”
“I heard that Lu Yao and Lu Ming from the main branch were close. I thought they were a thing!”
“That piece of trash? How could he ever be worthy of her? It would have been sticking a fresh flower on cow dung! Thank God they didn’t end up together, or he would have been awfully unfair!”
Everyone was in discussion.
Amidst the crowd, Lu Ming heard the speculations and gently smiled.
He would soon shut them up.
In a while, Lu Yao stepped onto the stage. Her juniors of the same family that were beside her were eclipsed by Lu Yao’s mere presence.
The envoys from the main grandstand had their eyes fixed on her. After all, they did come for her.
At that moment, there were over thirty youngsters of mixed genders from the Lu Family onstage.
“Is there anyone who has yet to come?” The Second Elder asked loudly.
In that instant, a figure walked out from the crowd and slowly approached the stage.
“Lu Ming?”
Seeing the figure shocked many people.
“Isn’t that the piece of trash from the main branch, Lu Ming? What? Does he want to participate in the House Meeting’s test?”
Many people were perplexed.
On the grandstand, the First Branch Elder’s eyes dimmed. He never expected that Lu Ming would dare to come.
Lu Family’s Seven Core Elders who sat atop everyone were also curious and puzzled.
“Ming’er!” In the crowd, Li Ping and Qiu Yue’s hands were tightly linked together.
On the stage, Lu Yao furrowed her brows when she saw Lu Ming. “Lu Ming, why did you come up? You don’t belong here, get down!”
Lu Ming did not respond, he only stared at her.
It was the first time that Lu Ming met Lu Yao after his blood meridian was stripped away from him. The figure in front of him that he used to love could no longer give him the slightest sense of warmth. Now, all that was left in his eyes was coldness.
Seeing Lu Ming’s looks, Lu Yao shook her head. “Lu Ming, I know that you’re upset over me succeeding in the Lord’s position even though you’re the descendent of the main branch, but you should be clear about your current condition. The position of the Lord belongs to the capable. There’s too great of a distance between you and me, a massive channel that’s difficult to cross.
The two of us are destined in different worlds. My world has only begun, while yours is fated to be ordinary. It’s the end of the line for you!”
“Is that so? You’re pretty confident, but you got one thing right. We do belong in different worlds.”
Lu Ming smiled. He then stood at one side, ignoring Lu Yao.
He did not come today to waste words, but rather to let his actions speak for themselves.
“Lu Ming!”
The First Branch Elder shouted coolly from the main stage.
Lu Ming turned around and looked at the First Branch Elder. He wanted to hear what the old fogey had to say.
“Lu Ming, you can’t condense Essential Qi as you were born frail and weak. Seeing how you were the descendent of the main branch of our family, Lu Yao was kind enough to keep you company and motivate you with encouragement. If you were able to awake a blood meridian like your father’s, you would be able to succeed in the Lord’s position.
Nothing can be done if you can’t even awaken a blood meridian. Naturally, you won’t be able to succeed in the Lord’s position. Coincidentally, Yao’er awakened a Fifth Level blood meridian and acquired the favor of the Duanmu Family’s prodigy, who is asking for her hand.
You took it to heart! Not only did you forget how well Yao’er treated you, but you’ve also fantasized about her and planned to make a move. You even tried to break the marital ties between Yao’er and the Duanmu Family. Absolutely offensive! However, seeing how you’re the descendent of the main branch and the only son of Brother Yuntian, I’m willing to let bygones be bygones. Now, get off the stage!”
The First Branch Elder’s voice echoed dully.
“What? Lu Ming was so detestable? Miss Lu Yao kept him company for so many years to take care of him, but he was that delirious and would bite the hand that fed him?”
“How detestable. No wonder he’s a piece of trash.”
The moment the crowd heard the First Branch Elder’s speech, they all glared at Lu Ming.
“Lu Yunxiong, d-don’t blabber nonsense.”
Amidst the crowd, Lu Ping shouted as she pointed at the First Branch Elder. Her entire body was shaking.
“Mother, there is no need to argue with someone like him.”
Lu Ming told Li Ping.
The First Branch Elder was the lowest of low. It was them who were the despicable ones that planned for three years to bring Lu Ming down and snatch his blood meridian away from him, but they were twisting the facts, even accusing him of attempted rape, and accusing him of ruining the marital ties between Lu Yao and the Duanmu family.
Lu Yao could not be bothered to talk to someone like him. The truth would soon be revealed.
“There’s actually someone like that? Absolutely abominable! Not only is he someone like that, but he’s also a piece of trash that can’t even awaken a blood meridian. What’s the point of staying on the stage? Hurry up and scram!” The White Tiger Hall’s envoy, Duanmu Qing, sneered.
“Who the f*ck are you? This is my family’s House Meeting, who are you to butt in?”
Lu Ming cast a sidelong glance at Duanmu Qing, he was not giving him any face.
“The audacity! How dare you? Do you know who I am?” Duanmu Qing stood up in a rage as he bellowed; he was laced with killing intent.
“Lu Ming, you piece of trash. How dare you offend the envoy of the Mystical Sword Sect’s White Tiger Hall?” The First Branch Elder pointed at Lu Ming and yelled.
“I don’t care who he is. Also, Lu Yunxiong, today is our family’s House Meeting. You are planning to deal with the descendent of the main branch with outsiders? Do you think the Core Elders are just for show?”
Lu Ming cast a sidelong glance at Duanmu Qing and the First Branch Elder. His words were clear and concise as it echoed across the entire venue.
The surrounding crowd was dumbfounded. Lu Ming was too daring, to the point where he would dare to offend the envoy of the Mystical Sword Sect.
“You...” The First Branch Elder’s face was flushed.
“Alright, Yunxiong, as well as Duanmu Qing. Please let this slide under the account of Lu Ming’s youthful arrogance.”
As expected, one of the Core Elders of the Elder Council spoke up.
They would not favor a side, choosing to protect the Lu Family’s best interests and would even protect the rights of the main branch, or they would not have spent the resources to awaken Lu Ming’s blood meridian through an altar ritual.
“That’s right, Duanmu Qing. Why are you bickering with a junior? Aren’t you embarrassed?” Mu Lan said as she glanced at Duanmu Lin.
“Hmph!”
Duanmu Qing sneered. However, he seemed to be wary of Mu Lan. He remained silent as he sat down with a sour expression on his face.
The First Elder seated himself as well, his face was ghastly pale.
“Lu Ming, once Yao’er takes control over the family, let’s see how you’ll fare.” The First Elder’s eyes were dark.
“Alright, the House Meeting doesn’t have any rules where anyone without an awakened blood meridian can’t participate. Lu Ming is eligible to join, let’s start now,” a Core Elder announced.Chapter 16: Enveloped In Flames, Yet A Walk In The Park For Me
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
“Alright, it’s time for the test of resolve,” Lu Yunfeng announced.
There was a set of stairs made of jade to the left of the platform. It was the Flaming Steps, consisting of nine steps.
It was produced by a master craftsman whom the Lu Family spent a fortune to hire. It was a peculiar device, with intricate inscriptions etched onto the surface.
The inscriptions on the steps would activate when someone stepped on it. It would begin to emit scorching heat that would surround the challenger who attempted to ascend the stairs.
Similar to being enveloped in a blazing fire, the person would have to bear the pain and torture of being enveloped in flames.
Although the flames were not real, the sensation was no different from being within an actual fire.
Furthermore, the scorching heat grew stronger with each step.
For this test, it was a competition between who could stay on top for the longest time, and who could climb to the highest step.
Naturally, the longer and higher the step one could stay on indicated stronger willpower.
“Allow me to go first.”
A junior of the Lu Family around the age of sixteen walked towards the Flaming Steps. Upon his first step onto the stairs, a large ray light instantly erupted from it, emitting a fiery red radiance.
The expression on the youth’s face changed drastically. He seemed to be in pain, but he immediately grit his teeth and took another step to the second level, which was closely followed by yet another step to the third level.
At that point, he stopped and started to struggle against the pain of being enveloped in flames.
However, his body started to shake in only ten breaths. His face was ghastly pale and contorted. It was obvious that he was bearing an intense amount of torture.
Yet another ten breaths passed. No longer able to withstand the heat, he yelped and jumped off the Flaming Steps.
“Lu Li, third step, twenty breaths.”
Lu Yunfeng announced.
Then, the juniors of the Lu Family stepped up one by one to take the test.
However, most of them lingered around the third and fourth steps and only lasted around twenty to thirty breaths.
“Allow me to try!”
Lu Chuan walked up. He glanced at Lu Ming and sneered before he ascended the steps.
His pace was rapid as he reached the fifth step without any signs of stopping.
Then, he stopped on the fifth step and stood there for as long as fifty-two breaths.
This shocked the crowd.
“Mm, as expected from Lu Yao’s elder brother. While the sister has paralleled talent, the brother doesn’t pale in comparison either. To actually be able to stay in the fifth step for fifty-two breaths!” Duanmu Qing praised.
“Haha, Envoy Duanmu likes to overpraise,” the First Branch Elder bellowed.
Lu Chuan smiled smugly.
Then, the test continued. There were quite a few people who possessed a strong will, two which did not pale in comparison to Lu Chuan. One stayed on the fifth step for fifty-two breaths, while another survived for fifty-five breaths.
However, nobody dared to challenge the sixth step.
Soon, only Lu Yao and Lu Ming were left on the platform.
Lu Yao glanced at Lu Ming and approached the Flaming Steps.
At that moment, everyone’s gaze was focused on Lu Yao.
There was a huge amount of expectation placed upon Lu Yao. Everyone wanted to see how strong her willpower was.
Those with amazing talents may not have a strong will.
Lu Yao delicately stepped onto the first step, and quickly ascended to the second step.
Step by step, she ascended to the sixth step in one go, without any signs of stopping.
Reaching the sixth step meant that she had already surpassed everyone else. Everyone held their breaths and focused on her.
However, Lu Yao did not stop. She took another step and ascended to the seventh level.
“Lu Yao actually ascended to the seventh step. Truly impressive!”
“Let’s see how long she can last.”
The crowd started to make predictions.
However, the answer came to them very soon.
Eighty-six breaths.
Lu Yao lingered on the seventh step for eighty-six breaths before she hopped off the stairs.
“Impressive, truly impressive! Not only is Lu Yao gifted with extraordinary talents, but she also has a strong will! She is truly a girl gifted by the gods!”
“Indeed! That was the seventh step, which is incomparable to the steps below!”
People in the crowd were discussing intensely.
Lu Yao was expressionless as she turned and walked away, as if what she had just achieved was insignificant. When she passed by Lu Ming, there was a look of disdain in her eyes.
“Did you see that? That’s the difference between us.” Her soft voice echoed in Lu Ming’s ears.
“Is that so? You’d best remember those words.” Lu Ming’s lips curled into a sneer as he walked towards the Flaming Steps.
“He’s over his own head!” The First Branch Elder sneered on the main grandstand.
“How many steps do you think that Lu Ming will be able to ascend?” Lu Chuan asked the other young people with a smile on the platform.
“From how I see it, it’ll be the second step at most.”
“Less than ten breaths on the second step, in my opinion.”
A few other youths laughed.
As the words left their mouths, their smiles were frozen in place as their eyes involuntarily widened.
At that moment, Lu Ming had already ascended the second step. He walked up to the third step but seemed to have no intention to stop as he ascended yet another step to the fourth step.
The fifth step followed, and the sixth step next...
Lu Ming did not stop after he reached the seventh step. He lifted his legs and ended up on the eighth step.
However, that was not Lu Ming’s destination! At that moment, he lifted his foot and took another step.
In the crowd, everyone’s hearts rose in tandem with Lu Ming’s foot. Then, it fell in sync with Lu Ming’s foot as he reached the ninth level.
What followed was a thunderous uproar.
“Goodness! Lu Ming ascended to the ninth step! How could this be possible?!”
“So what if he could get there? The point is to see how long he can endure! It would be even more embarrassing if he couldn’t handle it and left in a single breath!”
“Such overconfidence. It shall be a sight to behold when he turns into an oaf because his mind collapsed from being unable to bear the torture,” the First Branch Elder said coolly.
“Ming’er!”
“Young Master!”
Li Ping and Qiu Yue’s hands were locked in sweat below the platform. Their eyes were filled with worry.
However, the din from the crowd slowly lessened.
It was because ten breaths had already passed.
Lu Ming had actually lingered on the ninth step for ten breaths without coming down.
Obviously, the ten breaths were just the beginning.
Time was slowly ticking. Twenty breaths, thirty breaths...
A hundred breaths had quickly passed, but Lu Ming still remained on top.
His slender figure stood tall on the ninth step, like a sharp blade.
The crowd was dead silent.
“I bet his mind had already collapsed. Could he have died standing?”
The First Branch Elder sneered.
However, at that moment, Lu Ming smiled. “Lu Yao, what you said was correct, this is the difference between you and I.” His voice echoed from afar.
Not only were his words like a slap across the First Branch Elder’s cheek, but it was also a slap on Lu Yao’s cheek as well.
Those words were from Lu Yao to Lu Ming. At that point, Lu Ming had reflected it straight back at her with the hard truth.
Lu Yao’s beautiful eyes were flickering as she gazed at Lu Yao, who was atop the Flaming Steps. However, she quickly calmed herself. “Lu Ming, you’ve been a piece of trash for your entire life, suffering humiliation from others, that’s quite a strong will that you’ve achieved. However, it is merely a base; what matters most is the talent. I will show you next, the true difference between you and me!”
The crowd suddenly saw the light after her speech.
After thinking about it, it was natural that Lu Ming, a piece of trash, would have a stable mind after suffering through endless humiliation after all these years.
“So that’s how it is!” Duanmu Qing smiled.
“Is that so?” A vague smile formed on Mu Lan’s face. She was looking forward to Duanmu Qing and the First Branch Elder’s reactions after they witnessed Lu Ming’s performance later on.
Lu Ming’s eyes were calm as he smiled feebly on the steps. As if he was taking a stroll through a park, he slowly walked down the steps.
“Alright, the first round has ended. On to the second round, meridian testing. Prepare the meridian testing altar!” The Second Branch Elder announced.
Around ten muscular men then hoisted an altar that was around a hundred and fifty centimeters high onto the platform. There were dense inscriptions etched onto the altar.Chapter 17: How About This?
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
The meridian test was simple. All they had to do was to place their palm on the altar and circulate some Essential Qi, and the altar would react to it.
The altar would take the martial artist’s rate of condensation for Essential Qi, the rate of condensation of the main acupuncture points, as well as the toughness of the meridians into account. It would predict one’s potential, and the corresponding number of stars would light up.
The stronger the potential was, the more stars would light up.
Nine stars were the highest amount of stars one could get. However, there was a rainbow on top of it.
The rainbow would only appear if a divine meridian was opened up.
“Alright, let the testing commence!” The Second Branch Elder announced.
Then, the juniors approached.
Most of them had four stars and five stars.
It was only when Lu Chuan approached that the altar lit up with seven stars.
“Mm, potential worth seven stars. It’s quite admirable, he’s eligible to join the Mystical Sword Sect.”
Duanmu Qing nodded.
“Not bad. With that talent, even if it was the Mystical Sword Sect, he would be able to pass the strict tests and become a disciple of our sect,” the Azure Dragon Hall’s Tie Zhong said.
The Meridian Test continued on. There were other appearances of seven stars. There was even one who achieved eight stars, which caused a commotion.
When someone had reached the potential of seven stars, it was not just a simple matter of opening up all nine meridians. They had already opened up a few main acupunctures points for the first divine meridian.
It did not take a long time, nor was it too difficult for many talented individuals to reach the peak of top Novice Realm. However, they would stay at the peak of top Novice Realm for a long time after reaching it in order to open up a divine meridian.
Many people that were unable to completely open up a divine meridian, but yet able to open up a few main acupuncture points on a divine meridian, could feel their potential rise.
For every main acupuncture point that was opened up, one’s potential would rise.
However, among the Lu Family’s juniors, there was none who could open up a complete divine meridian.
Soon, Lu Yao and Lu Ming were the only ones left yet again.
“Lu Ming, open your eyes wide and observe the difference in potential between you and me. How wide will it be?”
Lu Yao dismissively glanced at Lu Ming and approached the altar.
All eyes in the area were once again on Lu Yao.
The blood meridian that Lu Yao awakened was a Fifth Level blood meridian. It was said that she had already opened up a divine meridian and closed herself in cultivation for two months. What level would she be in right now?
Everyone looked forward to it.
As for Lu Ming, he was merely a piece of trash with a strong will. Everyone had already dismissed him.
1
Lu Yao outstretched her jade-like hands and placed them on the altar. The altar was injected with fiery red Essential Qi.
Buzz!
The altar rumbled, and one by one, stars formed in the air.
One star, two stars...
Soon, there were six stars formed on top of the altar.
However, it did not stop there.
A seventh star immediately appeared, followed by the eighth star, the ninth star...
When the nine stars formed together, it became a rainbow and shot up into the sky.
It was a rainbow!
It represented a complete divine meridian.
However, it did not end there. A second rainbow followed and shot up high into the air as well.
At that instant, numerous dots of light radiated from Lu Yao’s figure.
They were the acupuncture points that she had opened up.
Eighty-one main acupuncture points lit up, then followed by the eighty-second star, the eighty-third star...
In the end, a total of ninety-nine stars were shining brightly.
The ninety-nine stars meant that Lu Yao had opened up ninety-nine main acupuncture points, and two divine meridians.
The surrounding spectators all stood and stared at Lu Yao in shock.
This included the seven Core Elders, as well as the envoys of the four halls from the Mystical Sword Sect.
Even Mu Lan had a stunned look in her eyes.
Donned in a snow-white dress, Lu Yao stood in front of the altar. Her body was illuminated by the ninety-nine stars, and there were two rainbows above the altar. It was as if an angel had descended to the mortal realm.
She was otherworldly, elegant, and saintly.
Lu Ming, who was close in proximity, seemed so tiny.
“Hahaha!” The First Branch Elder could not hold in his laughter.
“A monster, truly a monster! With Lu Yao in the Lu Family, they will be sure to prosper! None in Fiery Wind City will be able to compare to the Lu Family’s power!”
“Indeed! Such a monster, it’s no wonder that Duanmu Family’s prodigy is engaged to Lu Yao. They say that Duanmu Lin has also opened up two divine meridians. With the two of them working together, it’s a perfect combination! Fiery Wind City will have another prosperous tale in the pages of its history that will be sung for centuries!”
“It’s no wonder that the seven Core Elders would allow Lu Yao to succeed as the Lord of the Lu Family. It would be a pity not to let such a genius be the Lord. If it were up to me, the Lord’s position would have been given to her a long time ago!”
“Of course! They say that a person with two divine meridians opened up has the potential to reach King Realm! Will Fiery Wind City give birth to the next Martial King in the future?”
On all four sides, small families and factions of Fiery Wind City started to discuss heatedly.
“Miss Lu Yao, if you were to join the Onyx Tortoise Hall, we would be willing to provide you with Land Level martial arts and techniques for you to cultivate, and immediately promote you to a Silver Apprentice.”
The Onyx Tortoise Hall’s Gao Shi stood up excitedly as he extended his invitation to gain her favor.
“Miss Lu Yao, if you join the Azure Dragon Hall, not only will we provide you with Land Level martial arts and techniques as well as promote you as a Silver Apprentice, we will also specially hire a Silver-robed Elder as your master, who will specifically teach only you in cultivation.”
The Azure Dragon Hall’s Tie Zhong did not lag behind and presented her with even more alluring conditions.
“What are you guys doing? Miss Lu Yao already has marital ties with the White Tiger Hall, she ought to join us instead. Furthermore, the attractions that the White Tiger provides are definitely more alluring than yours,” Duanmu Qing said loudly as he glared at Gao Shi and Tie Zhong.
With a Fifth Level blood meridian and two divine meridians opened up, there was the hope of reaching King Realm in the future! Although it was merely a desire, it was already well worth a sect’s particular cultivation of such a talent. Naturally, they all wanted to recruit her into their respective halls.
“Miss Lu Yao...”
The Vermillion Bird Hall’s Liu Qian was about to state her terms but was interrupted by Mu Lan.
“Give it a moment, we’ll make a decision then.” A vague smile hung on Mu Lan’s face.
“Martial Aunt Mu!”
Liu Qian was slightly anxious. If she did not speak up and state her offers now, the chances of Lu Yao picking the Vermillion Bird Hall would be slim. She did not understand why Mu Lan stopped her, but Mu Lan was not a small influence. Since she had already spoken, Liu Qian had no choice but to look on anxiously.
The surrounding crowd took in a huge breath as an envious expression formed on their faces.
For four halls to fight over one person, and issuing such attractive rewards, such an honorable feat!
If it were them, even if they were asleep, they would wake from laughter!
At that moment, Lu Yao receded her Essential Qi. The two rainbows disappeared along with the dots of light on her body.
She daintily walked towards Lu Ming. “Lu Ming, can you see it now? The difference between us is like heaven and earth. We will never meet. Do you still have the guts to challenge me now?”
Lu Yao stepped off the stage after she finished her sentence.
“You just opened up two divine meridians, what’s so amazing about that?” Lu Ming sounded slightly disdainful as his voice rang out.
“What?” Lu Yao suddenly turned around.
Lu Ming walked towards the altar with big strides.
“Haha, Lu Ming, you were born with a weak and frail body, and your meridians were blocked. For you to take the Meridian Test, aren’t you afraid of embarrassing yourself?” Lu Chuan yelled tauntingly.
“Haha, Lu Chuan is right! Lu Ming, you should back down. It’s enough that you participated in the first test, there’s no need for you to join the next tests, or it won’t be your own pride you’re throwing, but rather the entire Lu Family’s,” the First Branch Elder bellowed from the main grandstand.
“Lu Yunxiong, you’re the First Branch Elder, yet you’re repeatedly stopping a junior from taking the test. I think you’re the one who’s throwing the Lu Family’s pride away,” Lu Ming instantly retorted.
“How dare you, Lu Ming?! Speaking to me in this manner is an offense!” The First Branch Elder scolded him angrily, enraged by Lu Ming.
However, Lu Ming merely turned around without even glancing at him.
Then, Lu Ming’s hand pressed on the altar as he injected his Essential Qi into it. The air above the altar simmered as a star lit up.
“Eh? That piece of trash, Lu Ming, actually managed to condense Essential Qi? He actually managed to get a star to show up?”
Lu Chuan’s eyes widened in shock.
Lu Yao’s eyes flashed in surprise as well.
“That guy could knock me out in one hit. I don’t think it’s going to be that simple.”
Lu Bing was standing beside Lu Chuan as he gazed on with a grave look in his eyes.
At that moment, there was another flash above the altar. Another star had lit up.
However, it was merely the beginning. The stars above the altar continuously lit up in quick succession.
Two of them, three of them... eight of them, nine of them.
Nine stars swiftly appeared above the altar.
“How is this happening? Wasn’t Lu Ming a piece of trash with blocked meridians? How could he actually cultivate Essential Qi?”
“Goodness, he could really cultivate, and even achieved nine stars!”
“Getting nine stars is already shocking! In the Lu Family, nobody has the potential of nine stars except for Lu Yao!”
Lu Yao squinted her eyes. An inconceivable expression formed on her face as she stood beneath the stage.
She had definitely snatched Lu Ming’s blood meridian from him. How could he be able to cultivate Essential Qi, to the point of having nine stars worth of potential? She could not come up with a reason.
“You can’t think of a reason, can you, Lu Yao? Speaking of which, it was all thanks to you,” Lu Ming said to Lu Yao.
“You only have nine stars. What does that amount to in front of an actual genius?” Lu Yao scorned as she quickly calmed herself.
“Is that so? What about this?”
A smile hung on Lu Ming’s face. Following a flash of Qi from his hand, the altar was continuously injected with boundless Essential Qi.Chapter 18: A Prodigy Is Born
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
The nine stars above the altar linked together and a rainbow shot into the sky.
A rainbow!
Another rainbow had appeared.
Every single person in the area stood up involuntarily.
“Ming’er. Ming’er.”
Amid the crowd, Li Ping and Qiu Yue held each other’s hands tightly. They were shaking uncontrollably, with tears welling in their eyes.
Prior to this, Li Ping knew that Lu Ming was able to cultivate Essential Qi, but she never expected that he would have such great potential.
At that moment, she felt that all the hardships and strain she had been through over the years were not in vain. Everything was worth it.
“Impossible! This is impossible!” The First Branch Elder screamed from the main grandstand.
“How could this be?” Seated beside the First Branch Elder, Li Fu’s eyes were about to pop out.
“This is already impossible? Then let us continue.” Lu Ming smiled.
Buzz! Buzz!
The altar groaned twice. Two rainbows shot into the sky consecutively.
Dots of light lit up on Lu Ming’s body simultaneously.
Eighty-one dots, ninety dots, ninety-nine dots. In the end, there were a hundred and eight dots of light.
Silence. It was dead silent.
The crowd was silent, not even the sound of breathing could be heard. It was as if the people had forgotten how to breathe at that moment.
Only the gentle wind carried the slightest bit of sound.
Everyone was staring at Lu Ming dumbfoundedly. Their eyes were bursting, with their jaws wide enough to fit an egg.
There were three rainbows, and all hundred and eight main acupuncture points were opened up. That meant that Lu Ming had opened up three divine meridians.
There was merely a difference of a single divine meridian between two and three divine meridians. However, the distance between the two stages was like heaven and earth.
Three divine meridians represented perfection.
In every generation of the Blazing Sun Empire, there were not many people who could open two divine meridians, but there was always one or two.
However, the number of people who could open up three divine meridians was scarce. Sometimes, there would not be a single individual in a generation.
At that moment, compared to Lu Ming’s three divine meridians, Lu Yao’s two divine meridians paled in comparison.
One was perfect, while the other was not. It was incomparable.
“Yuntian, Yuntian, did you see that? Our Ming’er is finally accomplished!”
Tears flowed down Li Ping’s face as she gazed at Lu Ming’s unflinching figure.
“The sleeping lion has awakened from its slumber. A prodigy is born,” Mu Lan murmured.
2
On one side, Liu Qian widened her eyes. At that moment, she finally saw the light. She came to see why Mu Lan stopped her from inviting Lu Yao. It was because of this person, Lu Ming.
The seven Core Elders were shaking on the main grandstand as they stared at Lu Ming.
“The young master... The young master actually opened up three divine meridians. The gods have finally opened their eyes!” One of the white-haired Core Elders even teared up.
“No, no, this is impossible! How could he open up three divine meridians without a blood meridian?!” The First Branch Elder bellowed, unable to accept the situation.
“It’s impossible, Lu Ming, impossible! You’re a piece of trash, how could this be possible?!” Lu Yao was unable to take it anymore. She screamed with a sharp voice.
“Lu Ming, can you see it now? The difference between us is like heaven and earth. We will never meet.”
“Do you still have the guts to challenge me now?”
These were her words to Lu Ming just now, but it seemed like such a joke now. It was like two ruthless slaps across her face.
“Nothing is impossible, Lu Yao. Let me tell you that the talent and reliance that you speak of is nothing but a joke in my eyes.”
Lu Ming looked at Lu Yao. She was a woman he once loved, but he did not feel a shred of emotion toward her at that point.
“Lu Ming, what are you so proud of? You’re merely a piece of trash that couldn’t awaken a blood meridian. I don’t know what kind of miracle happened to you to enable you to open three divine meridians, but it is a fact that can’t be changed that you’re unable to awaken a blood meridian. Hahaha!”
Lu Yao hysterically shrieked.
“Lu Yao, you look like a madwoman cursing on the streets right now. I’m officially challenging you to a match right now. If you lose, then you’ll be exiled from the Lu Family.”
The dots of light on Lu Ming’s body were shining radiantly. His voice echoed across the field as his eyes glimmered with the cold intent of war.
Lu Ming had shocked everyone in the tests of willpower and meridians. Now, he wanted to shock them even more with a challenge issued to Lu Yao.
“Lu Yao, do you dare to accept my challenge?”
Lu Ming’s eyes sparkled as he stared at Lu Yao.
“Very well, Lu Ming, I shall fight with you. I want everyone to understand that you are merely lucky, that you managed to open up three meridians through some miraculous wonder. However, a martial artist’s arts and techniques require talent and comprehension. I shall unmask your original form and let everyone be the witness of how you are still trash when faced against me!”
Lu Yao seemed to have calmed down and regained her confidence.
So what if he had a strong will? So what if he opened up three divine meridians?
In the end, a martial artist still relied on combat capabilities. She would thoroughly stomp on Lu Ming’s dignity through her combat capabilities, knocking all the stuffing out of him.
The crowd around them was deep in thought, their eyes sparkling brightly.
This was also the reason why the Mystical Sword Sect’s halls did not openly invite Lu Ming after his terrific display of talent in the two tests.
First of all, Lu Ming was unable to awaken his blood meridian. Secondly, he could definitely forcefully open up his meridians, but it would not be able to solve everything.
Hence, it was natural for them to prioritize Lu Yao.
“You blabber too much. Be careful that it doesn’t come back to bite you,” Lu Ming replied as he stared at Lu Yao.
“Lu Ming, cease your madness. There’s no need for my sister to step up in dealing with you. I’ll teach you a lesson!”
Lu Chuan took big strides on the platform and stood in front of Lu Ming.
Lu Ming let out a sneer and said, “Great timing, Lu Chuan. Even if you didn’t come out, I would look for you. Now that I can conveniently deal with you, it makes no difference.”
“Hahaha, Lu Ming, you’re riding on a high horse right now, but let me tell you that the tournament is no game! There will be blood, so don’t blame me if I accidentally cripple you, or even end your life!”
Lu Chuan smiled. As he finished his sentence, he shifted his gaze towards Lu Yunfeng, as well as the main grandstand.
“Chuan’er, you are correct. The tournament is no child’s play. Since it is a competition, there will naturally be unavoidable casualties. Do not show any mercy.” An icy look flashed across the First Branch Elder’s eyes as he bellowed.
The seven Core Elders glanced at each other and nodded. They did not object.
At the sight of that, Lu Yunfeng announced, “Very well, now that the second test has ended, it is time for the third round – the tournament. Fight to the best of your abilities, but do not throw your lives away.”
Lu Chuan smiled haughtily and stated, “Lu Ming, you can still change your mind if you’re regretting it.”
Lu Ming smiled expressively. “Is that so?” he asked.
“Lu Ming, how many moves coming from me do you think you can survive? One? Or is it two?” Lu Chuan sneered.
“One move!”
Lu Ming’s voice rang plainly.
“Hahaha, at least you’re self-conscious enough to know that you can only handle one move!” Lu Chuan cackled.
“No, what I meant was that I’ll defeat you in a single move,” Lu Ming said plainly.
Defeating Lu Chuan in a single move?
The crowd was in an uproar. They stared at Lu Ming as if he was a madman.
One move! Lu Ming said that he would only use one move to defeat Lu Chuan! Was he insane?
He had to understand that not only did Lu Chuan awaken a Second Level blood meridian, he had also reached a cultivation of Third Grade Warrior Realm.
Even if Lu Ming opened up three divine meridians, he was no match for Lu Chuan, let alone defeating him in one move.
“Defeat me in one move?”
Lu Ming’s face darkened as his eyes gleamed with murderous intent. “My name isn’t Lu Chuan if I don’t cripple you today, Lu Ming!” he said.
Rumble!
Lu Chuan’s aura exploded as dots of light illuminated his body. The unquestionable aura of the Third Grade Warrior Realm was released.
“Die, Lu Ming!” Lu Chuan roared. He made the first move as he struck his fist towards Lu Ming.
An explosive gust of wind followed his fist. He wanted to cripple Lu Ming in a single move.
This would make Lu Ming understand he was merely a piece of trash, and that fighting with him was so laughable and arrogant.Chapter 19: Are You Worthy?
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
Just as Lu Bing approached Lu Ming, Lu Ming took a step forward and the floorboard exploded. A formidable presence burst out from within Lu Ming.
BOOM!
Lu Ming threw a punch at the same time, but it was faster than Lu Chuan’s. It came later, but it reached its target first. It was as fast as lightning.
Bam!
Lu Ming’s fist slammed into Lu Chuan’s dantian, exerting tremendous force.
Bam!
Lu Bing flew back about four to five meters and crashed heavily on the floor. Blood from his mouth splattered everywhere.
1
“Ah! Ah! My dantian, my cultivation! Lu Ming, you destroyed my cultivation!”
Immediately, Lu Chuan let out a shrill scream of despair.
Silence!
There was pin-drop silence, all eyes were fixed at that moment.
Lu Ming destroyed Lu Chuan’s cultivation in one move?
Unbelievable!
Boom!
First Branch Elder shot up from his seat. Dark, cold murderous intent erupted from him as he stared at Lu Ming with a ferocious face and roared, “Lu Ming, you imbecile spawn, what did you do?! How dare you destroy Chuan’er’s cultivation? I’ll turn you into dust!”
With that said, First Branch Elder leaped down from his seat and shot out like a bullet toward Lu Ming.
“Lu Yunxiong, what do you think you’re doing?”
On the platform, Lu Yunfeng’s glare turned cold as he thrust his palm out and struck a move against First Branch Elder.
Lu Yunfeng’s body quivered from the impact as he took five steps back while First Branch Elder only took three steps.
“Lu Yunfeng, you dare stop me?” The First Branch Elder roared with rage.
“Lu Yunxiong, it’s House Meeting now, what do you think you’re doing? Going against House Rules?” Lu Yunfeng refused to budge.
There was never harmony between First Branch Elder and Second Branch Elder. The rivalry between the branches was not something that happened over the span of a day or two, so when he was given a chance to strike against First Branch Elder, Lu Yunfeng would most definitely not let First Branch Elder have his way.
“Back down, Lu Yunxiong.” A core elder barked from his seat.
First Branch Elder’s face twisted with rage as he faced the core elders and stated, “Fellow elders, take a look. This brat, Lu Ming, struck so cruelly and he destroyed Chuan’er cultivation. He must be severely punished.”
“Severely punished? Lu Yunxiong, are you for real?”
Lu Ming smiled coldly and said, “Lu Chuan was the one who wanted to destroy my cultivation at first, am I not allowed to fight back? You’re the one who said that casualties are inevitable in a duel. Are you f*cking kidding me?!”
“W-what did you say, you little b*stard?”
First Branch Elder was so mad his face twitched.
“What’s with the ‘you you you’s? Hurry up and remove your trash of a son from the stage,” Lu Ming reprimanded.
What a savage! Such cockiness! Lu Ming actually had the audacity to reprimand First Branch Elder in front of so many.
It was done so on purpose.
He was counting on the core elders of the Elder Council to make sure First Branch Elder did not get his foolish ways since there were so many outsiders watching the Lu House Meeting.
Besides that, his current performance would have caught the eyes of the messengers from the Mystical Sword Sect, so even if First Branch Elder wanted to do anything to him, he might not necessarily be allowed to.
That was why Lu Ming acted recklessly and cared for nothing.
First Branch Elder was so angry he nearly vomited blood, but in the end, he went off stage dejectedly with a ruined Lu Chuan.
‘Little b*stard, when House Meeting is over, I’ll chop you into ten thousand pieces. You and your mother.’ First Branch Elder bellowed in his heart, the intent to kill gleamed unabashedly in his eyes.
Lu Ming turned around and looked at Lu Yao. “Now, it’s your turn,” Lu Ming said faintly.
Lu Yao frowned, her eyes darkened, but she did not reply.
Lu Ming’s combat power exceeded her expectations. Suddenly she had a feeling that what was going to happen today would be out of her control.
Lu Ming’s and Lu Yao’s eyes met and a massive war broke out immediately.
All around the training field, all eyes were intently fixed on both of them.
Lu Yao, with awakened Level Five blood meridian, unlocked two divine meridians at the young age of fifteen, and messengers from all four halls of the Mystical Sword Sect came for her. She carried too many halos on her, and it was not wrong to say that she was the first of her kind in Fiery Wind City.
On the other hand, Lu Ming, formerly deemed useless and the Lu Family’s trash, blew minds today.
The test of willpower on the Flaming Stairs was a walk in the park for him. He unlocked three divine meridians, and it was safe to say that he was the first in Fiery Wind City history to have done so.
Lu Ming also dropped jaws by defeating Lu Chuan in one move.
These two were finally engaged in battle. Who would win?
Everyone, including the four Halls’ messengers and seven core elders of the Lu Elder Council, watched them intently.
First Branch Elder glowered watchfully at them, the intent to kill flashed constantly in his eyes.
Swoosh!
On the platform, Lu Yao struck first.
As fast as a deer, Lu Yao dashed towards Lu Ming with a fiery red light on her jade-like hands. Her palms immediately pummeled towards Lu Ming.
Boom!
Lu Ming twisted his waist and threw a Flame Dragon Fist.
Bam!
Powerful jets of wind were released as the fist and palm collided. Lu Ming and Lu Yao quivered upon impact and both took three steps backward.
Their first moves carried the same impact.
“Fourth Grade Novice Realm! Looks like Lu Yao’s been getting a lot of resources from the Duanmu Family.”
Upon contact, Lu Ming got a read of Lu Yao’s cultivation.
Lu Yao’s cultivation rose to Fourth Grade Novice Realm in a mere two months.
1
Other than her gift of a Fifth Level blood meridian, the Duanmu family certainly did not skimp on the resources.
At the same time, Lu Yao was horrified because she found out that Lu Ming’s cultivation was at Third Grade Novice Realm.
In the short span of two months, Lu Ming rose from a trash with no ability to cultivate Essential Qi to Third Grade Novice Realm. Unbelievable.
‘No, I’ve gotta keep him under my thumb!’ Lu Yao cried in her heart. Clang! She unsheathed her sword, its sword light beamed like a dazzling rainbow towards Lu Ming as she attacked.
“Dazzling Rainbow Sword Technique, Lu Family’s Lower Yellow Level martial art technique. Lu Yao, you lack practice and cultivation, what a shame,” Lu Ming said quietly.
Lu Ming took a stride and avoided Lu Yao’s sword light. He threw another punch.
The punch whistled like the wind as it approached Lu Yao’s face.
Lu Yao had no choice but to defend herself.
Boom! Boom! ...
Lu Ming punched continuously, the Flame Dragon Fist Technique fully utilized.
His Essential Qi was two times thicker than ordinary when he cultivated or condensed it, so when Lu Ming used the Flame Dragon Fist, it was an indestructible force.
In his first move before that, Lu Ming was only using fifty percent of his power.
At this moment, a hundred percent.
For a moment, Lu Yao was forced to retreat.
“Is that all you’ve got, Lu Yao? I’m disappointed.”
“Weren’t you the one who said that you’ll force me to show my true colors? Are you just saying it for fun? Give me the best you’ve got. You wanna be the head of the Lu Family with such strength? Are you even worthy?”
Lu Ming scowled at Lu Yao as his voice rang out coldly. The whole place erupted.
Lu Yao, the shining star, the chosen one, was at a total disadvantage. She was repeatedly forced to retreat by Lu Ming.
If they did not see it with their own eyes, it would be hard for them to believe.
Lu Yao bit her lip as her eyes grew colder and barked. “Lu Ming, I’ll show you what I’m truly capable of.”
Buzz!
A bright red light appeared behind Lu Yao. With a cry, a fiery red lark with five blood-red meridian focal points began to take form. It was the Fifth Level blood meridian.
Immediately, the lark descended upon Lu Yao and fused with her. Lu Yao’s power instantly increased at an alarming rate.
The eruption of blood meridians was a way for a martial artist to increase their power. The higher level of the blood meridian, the more the increase in power.
Fifth Level blood meridians meant a fifty percent increase in power.
Zing!
Quick as lightning, Lu Yao advanced towards Lu Ming with her sword aimed to kill.
“Let’s see who wields a better sword technique then!”
Lu Ming smiled calmly as he drew the Black Onyx Sword from his back.
The Black Onyx Sword transformed in streams of light as Lu Ming hacked it at Lu Yao.
The Lustrous Sword Technique.
Clang!
The swords collided. Lu Yao’s sword’s power was broken right away.
Swish! Swish!
Lu Yao was completely shrouded by Lu Ming’s unending sword light.
All Lu Yao could do was to counter them with all her might.
It was total oppression. Even with a higher cultivation and erupted blood meridians, Lu Yao’s strength was still oppressed by Lu Ming.
With three unlocked divine meridians and the Essential Qi from the True War Dragon Technique, Lu Ming completely overpowered Lu Yao.
It was ten or more moves later.
Zing!
Lu Ming’s sword light pierced through like lightning and went for Lu Yao’s throat.
Lu Yao paled, she could not dodge it at all.
At that point in time, everyone else had their heart in their throats. Was Lu Yao, the shining star, going to die?
Swoosh!
Abruptly, Lu Ming stopped in his tracks, the cold tip of his sword resting on Lu Yao’s throat.
The coolness of the sword tip and Lu Ming’s intense intent to kill caused Lu Yao’s eyes to flash with fear.
Lu Yao’s mind went blank as she realized that she was defeated.
“Lu Yao lost!”
“A complete win for Lu Ming, incredible!”
“That was totally unexpected.”
“We were deceived by the Lu Family! I’ll fight anyone who calls Lu Ming trash from now on.”
Chaos erupted everywhere.
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