Volume 1: Sixth Institute Turbulence Chapter 23: Setting Out on a Journey

  In the Yitian Pavilion, after everyone sat down, Xuan Yu Zhenren opened his mouth and said: "This time was originally planned for twelve days, but due to changes in circumstances, you all used only ten days to return. This is actually good, these remaining two days, each of you should practice again, take the opportunity to solidify the gains from the past few days. When the time comes, going to participate in that martial arts conference, can also have a bit more confidence. This time, I heard that all of you gained something, now everyone speak up, what did you gain this time?" After finishing speaking, he smiled and looked at the four outstanding disciples.

  Li Hongfei quietly walked out from behind his master, Qianyuan Zhenren, and stood in the center, looking at Xuan Yu Zhenren: "Reporting to Master, this time I went to the Absolute Yin Valley, not only did I kill countless monsters, but also understood many of their habits, learned how to analyze their psychology, and track their movements. This will allow me to better grasp my opponent's situation in future battles with humans, increasing my chances of victory. And thus bring even greater achievements to Yi Garden, glorifying Yi Garden."

  Xuan Yu Zhen Ren looked at Li Hongfei with a cold and proud expression, smiled and nodded, saying in a soft voice: "Not bad, you understand the analogy, there's progress. Work hard, in the future, Yi Garden will be yours. Ao Xue, what did you gain this time?"

  Zhang Aoxue stood quietly beside his master, looking at Xuan Yu Zhenren and said: "In response to Master Shibo's words, Aoxue has learned a lot of experience this time. I have seen many monsters and spiritual beings that I had never seen before. The ten-day training has greatly improved my swordsmanship and cultivation. All the hard work in the past was fully utilized in this one instance."

  Xuan Yu Zhen Ren smiled and said, "Practitioners of the Tao, relying solely on bitter practice is not enough. From ancient times to the present, countless predecessors who have achieved success in their cultivation have all grown step by step through their experiences. Only when one combines ascetic practice with worldly tempering can they achieve success. You are still young, and later you will need to undergo more tempering; your cultivation will naturally be greatly improved." After finishing speaking, his gaze shifted onto Lin Yunfeng's body.

  Lin Yunfeng's eyes rolled, and his body jumped to the front of Master Xuan Yin Zhenren. He opened his mouth and said: "Master, you don't know. This time, I was the one who gained the most. Firstly, I knew my own gap with my senior brothers and sisters. From here, I realized that I still need to work hard to cultivate myself. Secondly, I gained a lot of experience. Thirdly, I got a handy weapon. Hehe, this is a mysterious treasure sword. Don't believe me? Master, please take a look." Lin Yunfeng's face was full of smiles, and the Zhan Feng Treasure Sword suddenly came out of its scabbard. A long whistling sound was heard, followed by a burst of silver light shooting out. In mid-air, a dazzling silver snake rapidly rotated, instantly illuminating the surroundings.

  Xuan Yu True Person and the other four fellow disciples were all slightly surprised, carefully looking at that treasured sword. Xuan Yin True Person's face was slightly angry as he said: "You little brat, when did you get this sword? Why didn't I know about it? You're deliberately trying to provoke me, aren't you?" Although his words were scolding, the hint of pride in his eyes was unmistakable.

  Lin Yunfeng sheathed his sword and chuckled, "Master, you're busy with official duties, where do you have the time to bother with these trivial matters? I just got back and didn't want to trouble you, fearing that it would exhaust you. Hehe, don't be angry. If you get angry, there are so many things to deal with, and if they're divided among the other three masters, they'll be even more overworked." After finishing speaking, he chuckled again. This appearance made Xuan Yin Zhenren's face dark with anger, fiercely staring at him.

  Xuan Yu Zhen Ren's eyes sparkled with a smile as he said, "Alright, let's not joke around anymore. This time Yun Feng was able to obtain an excellent treasure sword, which is also his good fortune. Just by looking at the pure and refined light of this sword, we can tell that it belongs to the same category as Hong Fei's Li Yun Jian (Sword of Splitting Clouds), a divine artifact left behind by some senior immortal. Yun Feng, why don't you tell us how you obtained it? We'd all like to hear about it."

  Then, Lin Yunfeng told everyone how he and Lu Yun discovered the sword, and everything they had been through. Of course, he left out the part about the female ghost. After hearing this, everyone looked at Lu Yun with strange eyes, their gaze lingering on his sword.

  Xuan Yu Zhen Ren looked at Lu Yun, a hint of appreciation in his eyes, and said softly: "Among fellow disciples, mutual assistance and love are extremely ordinary. But to be able to keep it going all the time, that's quite difficult. I hope you can always maintain this purity, and get along well with all your fellow disciples. Yun Feng just said you also got a sword, bring it out and let us take a look." Lu Yun smiled calmly, his right hand shook, and the Intention Heart Soul Sword suddenly shot out, quietly standing in the center, emitting a faint red glow.

  Everyone carefully looked at the long sword in mid-air, revealing different expressions. Among them, the happiest was Ziyang himself. When Lin Yunfeng's Wind Slashing Sword came out of its scabbard, Xuan Yin True Man's proud gaze made Ziyang True Man feel very uncomfortable. At this time, his own disciple had also obtained a treasure sword, which in a way was equivalent to regaining some face for him, so he was naturally extremely happy.

  Ziyang Zhenren stood up, his right hand beckoning, and grasped the sword in his hand, carefully examining it. At this moment, except for Luyun, everyone's gaze was focused on Ziyang Zhenren's hand. After a while, Ziyang Zhenren's eyes revealed an extremely surprised expression, and he excitedly said to the crowd: "This hilt is engraved with the words 'as one wishes', and the sword body contains an extremely deep and profound true yuan of fierce fire, which can be described as the ultimate in yang and firmness. Paired with my Yang Institute's Fierce Fire Heaven-Defying Sword Technique, it would truly be extremely powerful. This is great, I didn't expect Luyun to obtain such a magical treasure sword."

  Xuanyin True Person walked up to him, took over the Ruyi Heart Soul Sword and examined it carefully. His eyes suddenly revealed a hint of surprise. He tried to input the Yitian Fa into the sword, but a strong and unparalleled resistance came forth, making it impossible for him to strengthen his true yuan no matter how hard he tried. Xuanyin True Person looked up at Lu Yun and the crowd of women with a surprised expression, saying: "This sword is strange, my true yuan can't seem to work through this sword, it's really mysterious. Ziyang, your cultivation method is different from mine, you try and see if it works?" After finishing speaking, he returned the sword to Ziyang True Person.

  Zi Yang's face was filled with disbelief, but he took the sword and tried it out. His expression changed instantly. Taking a deep breath, Zi Yang's body burst forth with a brilliant dark blue light, filling every corner of the Easy Sky Pavilion with an overwhelming aura. His face turned serious, his right hand shining brightly. Unfortunately, the Ruyi Sword didn't budge, quietly emitting a faint red glow.

  At this moment, everyone's expression changed greatly, and the true person of Xuan Yu also showed an extremely shocked look. Lu Yun saw it in his eyes and understood that it was the intention of the dragon soul and the sword that was playing tricks on him. Lu Yun couldn't think of it either, this sword was so strange, except for himself, it actually repelled others.

  Ziyang Zhenren's face was uncertain, and he indifferently withdrew his hand, looking at Lu Yun and saying: "You come and try to infuse it for us to see. Is this sword going to acknowledge a master? Why is it that neither of us can inject our true yuan into the sword?"

  Lu Yun gently took over the long sword, his right wrist flipped and turned, a dazzling red light burst out in an instant, like a fierce sun. The red light was extremely strong, causing everyone to slightly avert their gaze, not daring to look directly at the sword. Lu Yun's right hand turned, a shocking dragon hum suddenly transmitted, and the red light instantly disappeared.

  Everyone looked at the pale red long sword in Lu Yun's hand, and their eyes all showed a hint of surprise. Among them, the delighted and proud gaze of Zi Yang Zhen Ren was clearly visible to everyone. Xuan Yu Zhen Ren spoke up: "This sword is extraordinary, it seems that only Lu Yun can wield it, others will find it difficult to unleash its power. Lu Yun obtaining this precious sword will add a few points to his cultivation, remember to work hard in the future, the hope of Yi Yuan lies with you all. This training session has come to an end. Everyone had a good harvest this time, especially Yun Feng and Lu Yun. I hope that in the future, you will all cultivate well and make our Yi Yuan shine, elevating our status in the cultivation world. Now, let's talk about the Martial Arts Conference..." He looked around at everyone, then suddenly stopped.

  His gaze swept across the crowd, and Xuan Yu Zhenren said in a low voice: "This time, because our sect has produced four outstanding talents at once, so to show our sincerity, I have decided that we will send seven people from Yi Yuan Sect to Tian Jian Academy. Apart from these four and me, the remaining two... I was thinking of discussing with everyone. Everyone can express their opinions, and we'll discuss it together." This last sentence was obviously directed at the masters of the four academies.

  The four of them exchanged a glance, with Zi Yang Zhen Ren's eyes flashing with a divine light and his face extremely solemn. In the past, every time there was a competition, it was always Qian Yuan Zhen Ren from the Qian Institute and Jing Yue Da Shi from the Kun Institute who participated, while Xuan Yin Zhen Ren and Zi Yang Zhen Ren had never taken part. This was mainly because the Yin and Yang Institutes had never produced any outstanding talents. Xuan Yin Zhen Ren was born with an air of nonchalance and didn't pay much attention to this matter, but Zi Yang Zhen Ren had always been very concerned about it. This time, his own disciple Lu Yun had finally emerged, and no matter what, he had to fight for this opportunity and participate.

  Xuan Yin Zhenren glanced at Yun Feng and turned to look at Xuan Yu Zhenren, saying: "Elder brother has already made up his mind, so just tell us directly. This time, each of our four institutes will have one person participating, and naturally we all want to go, but that's unrealistic. So, elder brother, just speak out and avoid us arguing back and forth, making things unpleasant."

  Ziyang Zhenren said in a deep voice, "As for the past situation, Shixiong has it all counted in his heart, so we won't mention it. But this time, I must participate. After so many years, our Yangyuan finally produced a rare talent, and I will definitely follow to take a look, hoping that Shixiong understands my intentions." After finishing speaking, he stared straight at Xuanyu Zhenren with his eyes, the determination in them clearly revealed.

  Xuanyu True Person glanced at Qianyuan True Person and Jingyue Great Master, seeing that both of them had unhappy expressions. He couldn't help but let out a faint sigh in his heart. Xuanyu True Person said softly, "This time, due to the special circumstances, I'm also finding it very difficult. Originally, everyone could go, which would be the best, but unfortunately, that's not possible. Here, we must leave someone to guard, and with those demonic creatures being rampant and ghostly apparitions frequently appearing, we must be careful and pay attention. Therefore, this time, among you four, only half can participate. Considering the many times before, my plan is for Jingyue Shizhi and Ziyang Shidi to accompany me together. Qianyuan Shidi and Xuanyin Shidi will stay behind to guard, constantly paying attention to the movements of those demonic creatures and ghostly apparitions. I hope the two Shidis can understand this decision."

  As soon as this was said, the Ziyang True Person became excited and his whole body trembled slightly, with an extremely enthusiastic expression in his eyes. The Qianyuan True Person on the other side let out a cold snort and turned his head away. The Xuanyin True Person only sighed lightly and shook his head without speaking. However, that faint sense of loss was revealed very clearly. It seems that they still attach great importance to this Martial Arts Conference. Over the years, this is the most flourishing gathering of talents in Yiyuan, so this time it has special significance.

  Lu Yun and the other three looked at them silently, each with a different expression in their eyes. Lu Yun saw the excited look on his master Ziyang's face, and he couldn't help but sigh inwardly. He didn't expect that even after reaching such a high level of cultivation, he was still so concerned about this matter. No wonder it was so difficult to achieve immortality through cultivation. One had to be free from worldly thoughts in order to become an immortal. But who could truly achieve a mind free from worldly thoughts? It was probably very hard to find someone like that.

  Looking at the expressions of everyone, Xuan Yu True Person lightly sighed and said: "This matter is decided. Two days later, in the morning, we seven will set off to participate in this Martial Arts Conference at Tianjian Academy. It's said that among the six academies' disciples, there are many outstanding individuals. Our Yiyuan must also go all out this time, only then do we have hope to stand out from the numerous strong opponents. In the past, our Yiyuan has always been ranked last among the six academies, precisely because every time we compete, we're always at the bottom. Therefore, I'm counting on everyone to bring out their skills, go all out against them, and let them know that our Yiyuan is not inferior to theirs. The honor and shame of Yiyuan are now in your hands, I hope you all remember this in your hearts. Alright, you may go down now, make the most of these two days." Looking at the four of them, his eyes were filled with expectation and hope.

  Lu Yun left the Yi Tian Pavilion and returned to his room, where he sat quietly thinking. After closing the door and window, Lu Yun lay on his bed and gently took out the piece of silk from his bosom. Looking at the silver-glowing silk with the majestic silver wolf howling towards the sky, a hint of nostalgia appeared in Lu Yun's eyes. Gently stroking the silk, Lu Yun softly said: "Xiao Tian, are you doing well now? You once said that we might meet again someday, but where will that be? This brief friendship between us, I will always treasure it in my heart, and I believe you do too, don't you? In the future, one day, when I rise above the nine heavens, will you bless me then?"

  After muttering to himself for a while, Lu Yun put away the silk and his gaze stayed on his left hand. With a slight movement of his mind, the jade symbol that was shining with silver light appeared at the center of his palm. The two ancient seals, Town Soul, were flashing with dazzling silver light, clearly floating in front of Lu Yun's eyes. With another thought from Lu Yun, the silver light on his palm surged and the jade symbol suddenly shot out three feet, quietly presenting itself in mid-air, extremely mysterious and enchanting. Seeing this, a thread of surprise flashed across Lu Yun's eyes, and he slowly became infatuated with it.

  Suddenly, Lu Yun thought of something and hastily picked up the Ruyi Heart Soul Sword. Looking at the Ruyi Heart Soul Sword, a hint of mischief appeared in Lu Yun's eyes. With his left palm facing the sword, he released the jade symbol, and instantly, a silver light flashed, accompanied by two clear and distinct silver ancient seals that sealed onto the sword. A red glow burst forth, only to fade away instantly. The dragon soul within the sword let out a loud roar: "Lu Yun, you're crazy! What are you doing? Don't you know that's life-threatening? Your Soul-Sealing Symbol is overbearingly powerful, capable of binding all souls and spirits. Are you intentionally trying to harm me?"

  Lu Yun heard this and smiled, saying: "Don't be afraid, I was just testing you. At the same time, I also want you to know that from now on, it's best if you listen to me a bit more. Otherwise, who knows, one day when I'm not in a good mood, I might accidentally imprint the Soul-Sealing Charm on you again, so you have to remember to remind me at all times."

  The dragon's soul let out a loud hum, and said unwillingly: "Lu Yun, remember. Hmph, despicable person, you only know how to threaten me." The unwilling tone made Lu Yun burst into laughter. Lu Yun stayed in the room for a while before feeling a bit hungry, it was time to eat.

  In the afternoon, Lu Yun took the opportunity to practice his sword in the courtyard, further deepening his cultivation. This one practice lasted for the entire afternoon. Within two days, Lu Yun had practiced all of his techniques once. This trip to the Absolute Yin Valley was extremely rewarding for Lu Yun. Not only did he master the Confucian "Hao Ran Tian Gang" technique taught by the eccentric Master, but he also made great progress in the other four techniques. However, the greatest gain was actually the divine sword and dragon soul, as well as the mysterious and unpredictable Soul-Sealing Symbol. All of these things were extremely rare in the world.

  At this time, Lu Yun's cultivation had already entered the middle layer of "Indestructible", compared to the lower layer before going to Absolute Yin Valley, it had made great progress. Further up, after entering the upper layer of the Indestructible realm, there would be an opportunity to enter the final layer - the Return to Immortal Realm. At that time, he would have a chance to steal the Heavenly Way.

  On the third day, early in the morning, at the entrance of Yi Garden, a crowd gathered to see off the contestants. Xuan Yu Zhen Ren stood quietly outside the gate, looking at Qian Yuan Zhen Ren and Xuan Yin Zhen Ren at the entrance. Behind him, four disciples who were participating in the competition, as well as Jing Yue Da Shi and Zi Yang Zhen Ren, stood on either side, bidding farewell to their fellow sect members.

  Qianyuan True Person didn't say anything, only using encouraging eyes to glance at Li Hongfei. And Li Hongfei just nodded vigorously, his determined gaze already conveying everything that needed to be said. Xuan Yin True Person looked at Lin Yunfeng, her eyes softening in this moment. Gently, she said: "Yunfeng, remember to work hard on this trip, you absolutely cannot bring shame to our Yin Institute, do you understand? This time, although I won't be able to accompany you, my heart will go with you. If you don't put in effort, then don't come back and see me again. Go, don't forget."

  Lin Yunfeng looked at his master, and it was only then that he realized that his master actually loved him dearly, but had never shown it before. He nodded vigorously. Lin Yunfeng's eyes revealed a determined look, and in a deep voice, he said: "Don't worry, Master. I won't disappoint you, I will definitely achieve good results and come back to tell you." The two men's gazes met, and the genuine emotions between master and disciple were elevated at that moment.

  Too many words, and it's inevitable to part ways. The more you say, the more reluctant you are to leave. Xuan Yu Zhen Ren didn't say a word, but just glanced at everyone before turning around and leaving. The other six people slightly waved their hands in farewell and quickly left as well.

  In the gentle morning breeze, a few strands of faint coolness accompanied Xuan Yu Zhen Ren and his seven companions as they departed. At the gate, the expectant eyes of the crowd were filled with blessings and concern. The figures in the distance slowly disappeared, and the people at the gate finally withdrew their hands, which had grown somewhat tired, and turned back to enter. In the air, a few soft whispers arose, but unfortunately, who could hear them clearly?

  Lu Yun, this congenitally defective young man, finally left Yi Garden for the second time and started his legendary life. What kind of experience will be waiting for him ahead? What is the destined fate of his life?