8: Chapter 8 The Battle for Supremacy

With a single shout of "The match begins!" from Elder Xuan Zhenzi, the entire Outer Sect plaza fell instantly silent.

Tens of thousands of gazes focused on the main central arena, witnessing the Peak duel of this Outer Sect Grand Competition.

Lin Wan and Shi Yong stood ten zhang apart.

One was dressed in clean green robes, his figure standing tall and straight like a sword; although his face was slightly pale and his right arm was injured, his eyes shone with a brilliant light, and a faint Sword Intent circulated within them.

The other was bare-chested and robust, his muscles coiled like cast bronze, his Aura heavy and steady like a mountain; just by standing there, he gave people an unshakable feeling.

Neither of them attacked immediately, choosing instead to observe intently as their Auras clashed and climbed in silence.

Lin Wan could feel that Shi Yong's defense was even more comprehensive than Golden Bell's; it was not just protected by a Cultivation Technique, but his Physical Body had been tempered to a certain extreme of the Qi Refinement Stage.

His blood energy was as vigorous as a furnace, and faint earthy-yellow Spiritual Qi blended with the golden light of his body, forming a dual defense both inside and out.

Shi Yong also felt a sense of dread in his heart.

The feeling Lin Wan gave him was like a peerless divine weapon hidden in its sheath; seemingly calm, yet holding sharp edges within.

Once unsheathed, it would surely be earth-shattering.

Especially those eyes, clear and deep, as if they could see through all illusions.

"Junior Brother Lin, please!" Shi Yong cupped his fists, his voice like a booming bell.

"Senior Brother Shi Yong, please." Lin Wan returned the salute.

Before the words faded, Shi Yong moved.

He did not charge forward directly as everyone expected, but instead stomped his right foot heavily onto the arena.

"Boom!" The entire arena shook violently, as if a dragon were stirring beneath the earth.

A visible earthy-yellow ripple spread out from him as the center; wherever it passed, the bluestone ground cracked inch by inch, and gravel flew everywhere.

This tremor not only damaged the arena but also disrupted the opponent's footing and rhythm.

Lin Wan's figure flickered as he utilized Floating Light Sweeping Shadow; before the shockwave reached him, he was already floating up like willow catkins in the wind, landing lightly three zhang away.

At the same time, he joined his fingers on his right hand, and several pale golden Metal-attribute Sword Qi shot through the air, piercing toward Shi Yong's eyes, throat, heart, and other vital points like golden needles.

"Well done!" Shi Yong did not dodge or evade; he simply closed his eyelids slightly, and the muscles at his throat, heart, and other areas bulged, glowing with an even richer golden light.

"Ding, ding, ding!" The Sword Qi struck its target, emitting crisp clashing sounds, leaving only shallow white marks on his skin without even breaking the surface.

Shi Yong's defense was indeed terrifyingly formidable.

"Junior Brother Lin, this kind of probing attack cannot break my defense!" Shi Yong laughed, taking a step forward.

His figure charged like a wild elephant, instantly closing the distance, and his right fist slammed out like a cannonball, aiming straight for Lin Wan's face!

The wind from his fist howled, the air exploded, and the power was no less than that of Yue Shan, yet it was even more condensed and swift.

Lin Wan dared not receive it head-on; his figure slid sideways like a ghost, while his left hand formed a seal, and he whispered: "Vines, rise!"

Several thick vines burst out from the stone, wrapping around Shi Yong's legs.

The surface of these vines faintly shimmered with a pale golden luster, and they were exceptionally tough.

However, Shi Yong didn't even look at them; he shook his legs, and golden light erupted, causing the wrapped vines to instantly shatter inch by inch, unable to stop him in the slightest.

His fist momentum did not change, following like a shadow as he pursued Lin Wan closely.

Lin Wan pushed Floating Light Sweeping Shadow to its limit, leaving trails of afterimages on the arena as he continuously dodged Shi Yong's attacks.

At the same time, his hands flicked repeatedly, shooting out alternating Metal, Water, Wood, and Fire Sword Qi, probing for weaknesses in Shi Yong's defense.

The Metal-attribute Sword Qi was ineffective, the Water-attribute Sword Qi was easily dissolved by the golden light on his body surface, and the Wood-attribute Sword Qi was like a clay ox entering the sea.

Only the Fire-attribute Sword Qi could cause Shi Yong's movements to pause slightly, leaving scorch marks on his skin, but it still could not cause substantial damage.

"Shi Yong's defense is too comprehensive! With the dual superposition of his Physical Body and Cultivation Technique, there are almost no shortcomings!"

"Although Lin Wan's Sword Qi is sharp, it seems unable to break his defense!"

"If this continues, Lin Wan's Spiritual Qi will be exhausted first!"

The crowd off the stage watched anxiously.

While Lin Wan's movement technique was exquisite, the arena space was limited, and Shi Yong was pressing step by step, continuously compressing his range of movement; he would eventually be forced into a dead end.

"Junior Brother Lin, your movement technique is indeed remarkable, but you cannot win against me by just dodging!"

Shi Yong shattered several ice cones (formed by Water-attribute Sword Qi) with one punch, his voice booming like a bell, "Take this punch of mine—Mountain Collapse!"

His fist momentum suddenly changed, no longer pursuing speed but becoming heavy and slow.

However, wherever the fist passed, the air seemed to solidify, carrying an intent to crush everything, sealing off all of Lin Wan's dodging angles and forcing him to receive it head-on.

There was nowhere to hide!

Lin Wan's eyes narrowed, and he stopped dodging.

He took a deep breath, and the Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique within him operated at full power, with Yin and Yang Qi frantically pouring into his right arm to temporarily suppress his injuries.

At the same time, the Metal, Water, Wood, and Fire Sword Qi in his Dantian circulated rapidly, gathering in his right fist according to a certain mysterious trajectory.

He did not choose the sword finger that pierces through a point, but instead struck out with a fist of his own!

As the fist struck out, there was no wind and no sound, but on the surface of the fist, golden, blue, green, and red lights flickered alternately, finally transforming into a chaotic, grayish luster as it met Shi Yong's "Mountain Collapse" punch.

The secret technique of the Little Five Elements Sword Technique—Five Elements Fist!

Using the fist to control the sword, transforming the sword into a fist, and integrating the might of the five elements sword Qi entirely into one punch!

This move placed a huge burden on the Physical Body, but its power was far greater than a single Sword Qi.

"Bang!!!" The two fists collided like two small mountains crashing together; the deafeningly dull sound caused the eardrums of those with weaker cultivation off the stage to ache.

A violent wave of air exploded from the center of the two, the arena ground collapsed by more than a foot, and gravel splattered like rain.

Lin Wan let out a muffled groan, feeling an irresistible, overwhelming force coming along his arm.

The bones of his entire right arm let out a groan of being unable to bear the burden, and the newly scabbed wounds burst open again, causing blood to splatter.

His entire body flew backward like a kite with a broken string, tumbling several times in the air before barely landing on the edge of the arena, staggering a few steps, and a wisp of blood spilled from the corner of his mouth.

Shi Yong was not having an easy time either.

He retreated seven or eight steps with a "thump, thump, thump," leaving deep footprints on the arena with every step.

On the surface of his right fist, several fine cracks had appeared, oozing golden blood (due to his successful Body Refining, his blood carried gold).

Furthermore, a mixed force that was sharp, scorching, enduring, and endlessly flowing invaded his body along the Meridians of his arm, causing his blood and Qi to surge and his internal organs to ache faintly.

"Good punch!" Shi Yong shook his numb right fist, a more intense Battle Intent erupting in his eyes.

"I didn't expect Junior Brother Lin to not only have excellent sword skills but also such fierce fist techniques! Come again!"

He lunged forward again, his fists like beating drums, his offensive even more violent.

Lin Wan suppressed his surging blood and Qi, his eyes cold.

He had suffered a loss in that fist collision; his right arm injury had worsened, and his Spiritual Qi had been significantly consumed.

But he had also probed the limit of Shi Yong's defense—it was not truly flawless, and the mixed force of the Five Elements Fist could cause him damage.

"I cannot fight him head-on; I must use skill to overcome strength, and use the Five Elements mutual generation and restriction to find his flaws."

Lin Wan's figure moved again; he no longer just dodged blindly but began to consciously guide Shi Yong's attacks, while the Sword Qi in his hands changed constantly.

The Metal-attribute Sword Qi took the lead, constantly harassing Shi Yong's relatively weak points such as his eyes, ear holes, and joints, forcing him to divide his attention for defense.

The Water-attribute Sword Qi transformed into ice mist, permeating the arena; not only did it lower the temperature and slow down Shi Yong's movements, but it also interfered with his vision and perception.

The Wood-attribute Sword Qi combined with the grass seeds remaining in the cracks of the arena, quietly growing fine thorny vines that constantly wrapped around Shi Yong's ankles; although they were instantly shattered, they continuously consumed his physical strength and caused his footsteps to show subtle incoordination.

The Fire-attribute Sword Qi hid within the ice mist, and while Shi Yong was blocking the Metal-attribute Sword Qi or shattering the vines, it would suddenly attack his joint connections such as his armpits, the crook of his elbows, and the back of his knees.

These areas had relatively weak defense, and the Fire-attribute Sword Qi was scorching and explosive, causing persistent burning pain and affecting the fluidity of his movements.

Lin Wan's tactics were extremely exquisite, like the most brilliant chess player, laying out his plan step by step and accumulating advantages bit by bit.

He no longer pursued a one-hit kill, but instead used the advantages of his movement technique and Sword Qi to continuously weaken, interfere with, and restrict Shi Yong.

Although Shi Yong had formidable defense and astonishing strength, facing this slippery, loach-like fighting style of Lin Wan that was filled with hidden thorns everywhere, he also felt quite stifled.

He roared repeatedly, the wind of his fists howling, smashing the arena into a pitted mess, yet he was never able to truly inflict heavy damage on Lin Wan.

Instead, small wounds kept appearing on his body, and his movements, due to the persistent burning pain and the erosion of the icy cold, were no longer as fluid and unhindered as they were at the beginning.

"Lin Wan is wearing Shi Yong down! What exquisite control!"

"His mastery of the five elements sword Qi is superb—Metal for attack, Water for control, Wood for disturbance, and Fire for assault—the coordination is seamless!"

"Although Shi Yong's defense is strong, if this continues, he might really be worn to death by him!"

Those with discerning eyes off the stage had already seen Lin Wan's intention.

Shi Yong also realized the danger, but his personality was fierce and unyielding; he hated this kind of skirmishing tactic the most.

His heart grew anxious, his offensive became more urgent, and his flaws gradually increased.

"Now is the time!" A brilliant light flashed in Lin Wan's eyes.

At the very moment Shi Yong punched and shattered a large area of ice mist, with his old strength exhausted and his new strength yet to be born, Lin Wan's figure suddenly stopped.

He no longer moved about, but instead formed a strange seal with his hands in front of his chest.

Inside his Dantian, the Metal, Water, Wood, and Fire Sword Qi surged out frantically, condensing, compressing, and fusing in front of him.

But unlike when he cast "Four Symbols Explosion" before, this time, the four types of Sword Qi did not collide and explode violently.

Instead, they followed a specific order and proportion, connecting head to tail to form an incomplete, slowly rotating Sword Qi cycle.

Metal generates Water, Water generates Wood, Wood generates Fire.

Although it lacked the critical "Fire generates Earth" and "Earth generates Metal," and could not form a complete Five Elements cycle, this preliminary mutual generation of the four elements of Metal, Water, Wood, and Fire had already caused a qualitative change in the might, spirituality, and control of the Sword Qi.

A four-colored sword wheel with pale gold as the bone, water blue as the surface, emerald green as the network, and crimson red as the edge slowly took shape.

The sword wheel was about a foot in diameter, rotating ceaselessly, emitting a strange fluctuation that was fluid and harmonious, yet contained destruction within.

"Four Symbols... Reincarnation!" Lin Wan whispered, pointing his sword finger forward.

The four-colored sword wheel spun and flew out; its speed seemed slow, but it felt as if it had locked onto the space, carrying a mysterious trajectory as it slashed toward Shi Yong.

Shi Yong's pupils shrank abruptly; he felt an unprecedented, fatal threat from that sword wheel!

It was more condensed and more dangerous than the "Four Symbols Explosion" from before!

He roared, driving his "Mountain Peak Technique" to the limit.

The golden light on his body blended with the earthy-yellow Spiritual Qi, transforming into a layer of Protective Aura as solid as armor.

At the same time, he crossed his fists and slammed them fiercely toward the sword wheel!

"Break for me!"

"Clang!!!!" A deafening, loud sound accompanied the teeth-grinding sound of metal rubbing against metal.

The sword wheel and Shi Yong's fists collided fiercely.

There was no explosion, no wave of air.

The sword wheel pressed tightly against the surface of Shi Yong's fists, spinning and cutting frantically!

The sharpness of the Metal-attribute Sword Qi, the infiltration of the Water-attribute Sword Qi, the vitality (destroying vitality) of the Wood-attribute Sword Qi, and the scorching heat of the Fire-attribute Sword Qi—the four elements generated each other, and their power stacked layer upon layer, endless and continuous.

"Sss, sss, sss—!"

The Protective Aura on the surface of Shi Yong's fists was worn away and penetrated at a speed visible to the naked eye, revealing the bronze-colored skin beneath.

Scorch marks and cracks quickly appeared on his skin, and golden blood oozed out, instantly evaporated by the Sword Qi.

"Ah—!" Shi Yong let out a painful roar, frantically driving his Spiritual Qi, wanting to shake off the sword wheel.

But the sword wheel was like a maggot on a tarsal bone, clinging tightly and constantly eroding.

They stalemated for a few breaths.

"Crack!" With a crisp sound, the fist bone of Shi Yong's left hand was actually cut open by the sword wheel, creating a wound deep enough to see the bone!

The Sword Qi took the Opportunity to invade, rampaging through the Meridians of his arm.

Shi Yong's expression changed drastically; he made a prompt decision and slammed his right fist fiercely into his own left shoulder blade!

"Puff!" The shoulder joint of his left arm was dislocated by his own strike, and his entire left arm hung down limply, temporarily disabled.

And that four-colored sword wheel, following the detachment of his left arm, lost its attachment; its light dimmed, and it was shattered by his punch.

But the price Shi Yong paid was heavy.

His left arm was severely injured and dislocated, and the Sword Qi that had invaded his body was still destroying his Meridians, causing his Aura to drop sharply and his face to turn pale.

Lin Wan was not having an easy time either.

Casting "Four Symbols Reincarnation" was a huge test for his Divine Sense, Spiritual Qi, and even his Dao Heart.

At this moment, his face was as pale as paper, cold sweat poured from his forehead, the Spiritual Qi in his Dantian was almost exhausted, and his right arm was aching with a piercing pain, trembling slightly.

But he forced himself to hold on, did not fall, and his gaze remained as firm as iron as he looked at Shi Yong.

On the arena, the two were separated by several zhang, both seriously injured and panting.

But their Auras were still clashing.

"Junior Brother Lin... good technique!" Shi Yong gasped, his right fist clenched tight, his single eye (a Metal-attribute Sword Qi had grazed the corner of his eye earlier, leaving a bloodstain) staring fixedly at Lin Wan.

"I, Shi Yong... am convinced! But if you want to win, you still have to ask my fists!"

He actually ignored the injury to his left arm and stepped forward again, his right fist clenched, golden light gathering once more, preparing to make one final struggle.

Lin Wan took a deep breath, suppressing the taste of blood in his throat.

He slowly raised his left hand, his five fingers spread open in the air.

In his palm, a weak but incomparably condensed crimson flame slowly jumped out.

This wisp of flame was smaller than any previous Fire-attribute Sword Qi, but its color was deeper, like concentrated magma, emitting a heart-palpitating high temperature.

It was precisely the even purer wisp of "Fire within Wood" Sword Qi that he had instantly spawned by using Wood-attribute Sword Qi as firewood, having gained a deeper realization of the Five Elements mutual generation and restriction when he cast "Four Symbols Reincarnation" just now.

Although it was only a wisp, the scorching, explosive, and all-burning intent contained within it made Shi Yong feel his skin prickling with pain.

"Senior Brother Shi Yong, do you still want to continue?" Lin Wan's voice was hoarse, but his gaze was as sharp as a sword.

Shi Yong looked at that wisp of crimson flame, then looked at his own severely injured left arm and his greatly exhausted body.

After a moment of silence, he suddenly grinned, revealing his blood-stained teeth: "Forget it, forget it! Although your flame is small, I can feel that if I take a hit, it will be enough for me to suffer.

If we keep fighting, it will just be a mutual destruction, and we'll just let those onlookers profit for nothing. I concede!"

He was quite free-spirited, directly shouting aloud: "Elder Referee, I concede!"

Once these words were spoken, the whole audience fell silent.

Immediately afterward, a tsunami-like cheer erupted!

"He won! Lin Wan won!"

"First place in the Outer Sect Grand Competition! The Champion!"

"Unbelievable! A four-Spiritual Root Trash, counter-attacking to the top!"

"Senior Brother Lin! Senior Brother Lin!"

The sound waves were like a tide, and countless fanatical, worshipful, and awe-filled gazes focused on that green-robed figure on the arena who, although covered in scars and swaying, still stood as straight as a sword.

Elder Xuan Zhenzi flew down onto the arena, looked at Lin Wan, his eyes full of admiration, and announced in a loud voice: "Outer Sect Grand Competition, finals, Lin Wan wins! The Champion of this Grand Competition—Lin Wan!"

"Roar—!" The cheering rose even higher, soaring straight into the clouds.

In his heart, Lin Wan finally breathed a sigh of relief.

He dissipated the flame in his palm, bowed to Xuan Zhenzi, and then cupped his fists to Shi Yong: "Senior Brother Shi Yong, you were too kind."

"Haha, losing to you, it's not unjust!" Shi Yong laughed, stepping forward to pat Lin Wan on the shoulder (very lightly). "After entering the Inner Sect, come find me to spar often!"

"Definitely." Lin Wan nodded.

At this moment, the Deacon Disciples who had been prepared long ago stepped onto the stage to treat their wounds and feed them Medicinal Pills. Although the Grand Competition had ended, matters such as subsequent ranking rewards and Inner Sect promotions still needed to be handled.

Under the gaze of countless eyes, Lin Wan was helped off the ring. Liu Ruyan and Xiao Yun had been waiting under the stage; seeing him descend, they immediately approached, eyes brimming with tears, feeling both heartache and pride.

"Senior Brother..." Liu Ruyan held him, her voice choked with sobs.

"Big Brother Lin, you are too amazing!" Xiao Yun was also crying her eyes out.

"It's nothing, just a minor injury." Lin Wan smiled with difficulty, and with the support of the two women, he returned to the rest area to receive more detailed treatment.

One hour later, the injuries of all the promoted Disciples had been initially controlled. Elder Xuan Zhenzi appeared once again to announce the final rankings and rewards.

The final rankings of this Outer Sect Grand Competition: First Place: Lin Wan. Second Place: Shi Yong. Third Place: Golden Bell. Fourth Place: Yue Shan. Fifth Place: Cold Moon. Sixth Place: Ghost Shadow. Seventh Place: Illusion Butterfly. Eighth Place: Yun Feiyang.

"The top ten Disciples may be promoted to the Inner Sect and receive one Foundation Establishment Pill! The top three will be additionally rewarded with five thousand, three thousand, and one thousand contribution points respectively. The top eight may all enter the second floor of the Scripture Pavilion to select one Yellow Rank High Grade Cultivation Technique or Spell."

"The Grand Competition champion, Lin Wan, will receive an additional reward: ten thousand contribution points, a choice of one High Grade Magical Artifact, and the ability to make one reasonable request to the Sect."

As Xuan Zhenzi's voice fell, the entire venue was in an uproar again. These rewards were too generous! Especially the champion's reward—a choice of any High Grade Magical Artifact, and the ability to make a request!

Lin Wan was also slightly excited. He already had one Foundation Establishment Pill, so having another was naturally a good thing; it could be kept for backup or used to exchange for resources. The contribution points and the High Grade Magical Artifact were tangible benefits. As for that request... he already had some ideas in mind.

"Will the top ten Disciples please come to the stage to receive your rewards."

Lin Wan, Shi Yong, and the others, ten in total, went up to the stage one by one and received from Xuan Zhenzi the jade token representing their status as Inner Sect Disciples, the jade bottle containing the Foundation Establishment Pill, and the contribution point token.

When Lin Wan received the golden token representing the champion, engraved with the two characters "Qingyun," the entire venue erupted in cheers once again.

"Senior Brother Lin! Senior Brother Lin!"

Amidst the waves of sound, Lin Wan could feel countless complex emotions: envy, jealousy, worship, and awe... But his heart was like still water, and he merely bowed to thank Xuan Zhenzi and the various Elders.

The award ceremony ended, and just as Xuan Zhenzi was about to announce the conclusion of the Grand Competition, suddenly, a cold voice rang out:

"Wait!"

Everyone looked in the direction of the voice and saw that on the viewing platform, Inner Sect Deacon Zhao Kun slowly stood up, his face as gloomy as water, his gaze fixed on Lin Wan like a poisonous snake.

"Junior Martial Uncle Xuan Zhen, this Disciple has something unclear, and requests that you provide guidance." Deacon Zhao Kun cupped his hands, his voice carrying suppressed anger.

"Speak." Xuan Zhenzi frowned slightly.

"This brat Lin Wan was only at the first level of Qi Refining three months ago, yet now he is able to suppress all heroes and win the Grand Competition championship. Such cultivation speed is unheard of. This Disciple suspects that he has cultivated some kind of Demonic Path evil technique, or obtained some unspeakable Opportunity, perhaps by harming fellow Disciples! I request that you investigate clearly, search his soul, and verify his Cultivation Technique to rectify the Sect's atmosphere!"

Search his soul and verify his cultivation! This Deacon Zhao Kun was actually attacking at this moment, wanting to completely destroy Lin Wan! The entire venue was in an uproar.

Everyone knew that Deacon Zhao Kun was holding a grudge because of the death of his nephew Zhou Zihao and was using this Opportunity for revenge. But once these words were spoken, they also aroused suspicion in many people. Yes, Lin Wan's cultivation speed was indeed eerily fast.

Liu Ruyan and Xiao Yun, down below the stage, turned pale and tightly held each other's hands.

Lin Wan's expression remained unchanged, but he sneered in his heart. It had come, as expected. He had long anticipated that Deacon Zhao Kun would not give up.

"Deacon Zhao Kun!" Xuan Zhenzi's face darkened. "In the Grand Competition, life and death are one's own responsibility. The death of Zhou Zihao has already been concluded by the Deacon Hall; it was caused by an accidental encounter with a Tier 2 Yao Beast. You have no proof and no evidence, yet you spout nonsense here merely because of personal grudges, slandering the champion of this Grand Competition. What crime should you be charged with?"

"Junior Martial Uncle, please examine the facts!" Deacon Zhao Kun gritted his teeth. "This Disciple is not without proof. This brat possesses four types of Sword Qi, but is missing only the Earth element. According to what this Disciple knows, a few months ago, an ancient Sword Cultivator's Immortal Cave appeared in the back mountain, and within it was a remnant inheritance of the five elements sword Technique. This brat must have obtained that inheritance, which is why he has advanced by leaps and bounds. And when that Immortal Cave appeared, there was a leakage of Devilish Qi, which may be related to the Demonic Path! What this brat is cultivating may not be a proper orthodox Cultivation Technique!"

Once these words were spoken, even Xuan Zhenzi was slightly taken aback. There were indeed rumors of an ancient Immortal Cave appearing in the back mountain, but the news was quickly sealed by the Sect. Could it be...

"Bullshit!"

A roar exploded like thunder. Peak Master Yue Lingyun of Tianjian Peak stood up abruptly, his terrifying Golden Core Stage pressure released without reservation, like the descent of heavenly might, making all the Disciples present feel suffocated.

"Deacon Zhao Kun! What kind of thing are you to dare slander my Sword Cultivation Genius?" Peak Master Yue Lingyun's hair and beard stood on end, his eyes wide with anger. "The Sword Qi that Lin Wan Cultivates is upright and peaceful, with a solid Foundation; it is clearly an orthodox Sect Sword Technique! What Demonic Path evil technique? I have cultivated for hundreds of years; do you think I can't distinguish between right and wrong? As for the cultivation speed? This child is a once-in-a-generation Sword Cultivation Genius; once he achieves enlightenment, his cultivation base surges—what is strange about that? You are nothing but a Foundation Establishment Trash who piled up your cultivation with Medicinal Pills; do you deserve to question a true Genius?"

He scolded him without mercy, berating Deacon Zhao Kun until he was speechless. Deacon Zhao Kun's face flushed red like pig's liver, but facing the anger of an Immortal Master at the Golden Core Stage, he dared not talk back and could only grit his teeth and lower his head.

"Junior Martial Brother Yue, calm down." Xuan Zhenzi quickly mediated, then looked at Lin Wan and said gently, "Lin Wan, although what Deacon Zhao said is nonsense, to stop the mouths of the crowd, are you willing to demonstrate the Foundation of your Cultivation Technique to prove your innocence? Rest assured, it is only to probe the attributes of your Cultivation Technique; we will absolutely not search your soul."

Lin Wan's thoughts raced. He knew that if he could not completely dispel the doubts of the crowd today, there would be endless trouble in the future. Moreover, with Peak Master Yue Lingyun, this Golden Core Sword Cultivator, backing him, showing a little would be fine.

"This Disciple obeys." Lin Wan cupped his hands and relaxed his mental defenses.

Xuan Zhenzi pointed from a distance, and a gentle but pure Divine Sense probed into Lin Wan's body, carefully sensing his Spiritual Qi attributes, circulation routes, and cultivation Foundation.

A moment later, Xuan Zhenzi withdrew his Divine Sense, a smile appearing on his face, and he announced loudly: "What Lin Wan Cultivates is indeed an orthodox Sect Cultivation Technique. His Foundation is solid, his Spiritual Qi is pure, and there is absolutely no trace of Demonic Path evil Aura. As for his Sword Technique, it should be a remnant of some profound five elements sword Technique, but the style is upright and open; there is absolutely no problem."

Once these words were spoken, it vindicated Lin Wan.

"Deacon Zhao Kun, what else do you have to say?" Peak Master Yue Lingyun looked coldly at Deacon Zhao Kun.

Deacon Zhao Kun's face turned ashen; he knew that he could not do anything to Lin Wan today, so he had to lower his head: "This Disciple... knows his mistake. I was momentarily agitated and spoke nonsense; I ask the Junior Martial Uncle and the Peak Revered Master to forgive me."

"Hmph! Get back and reflect on your mistakes! Without my permission, you are not allowed to leave the Deacon Hall for even half a step!" Peak Master Yue Lingyun said sternly.

"Yes..." Deacon Zhao Kun looked as if his parents had died and retreated in a sorry state. The disturbance was thus quelled.

"Alright, the Grand Competition ends here!" Xuan Zhenzi announced. "The top ten Disciples, go to the Internal Affairs Hall within three days to handle the promotion procedures and receive your Immortal Cave. Lin Wan, come with me."

Lin Wan nodded to Liu Ruyan and Xiao Yun, signaling them to go home first, while he followed Xuan Zhenzi and several Elders, including Peak Master Yue Lingyun of Tianjian Peak, and left the plaza.

On the viewing platform, Deacon Li Changfeng watched the back of Lin Wan as he left, a gratified smile appearing on his face. This kid truly did not disappoint him. It was just unexpected that even Junior Martial Uncle Yue was alarmed; it seemed that this child entering Tianjian Peak was already a foregone conclusion.

In the Inner Sect, on Tianjian Peak, inside an elegant cottage. Lin Wan stood in the lower position, while Xuan Zhenzi, Peak Master Yue Lingyun, and two other Golden Core Elders sat on both sides.

"Lin Wan, do you know why you were summoned here today?" Xuan Zhenzi asked with a smile.

"This Disciple does not know; please instruct me, Elder." Lin Wan said respectfully.

"Your performance today was stunning. With the talent of a four-Spiritual Root, you were able to suppress your peers with a Qi Refining Great Perfection cultivation base, win the championship, and even comprehend four types of Sword Qi, touching the threshold of the five elements sword Dao. Such talent, Heart-Nature, and Opportunity are all of the highest caliber." Xuan Zhenzi said slowly, "According to the Sect's rules, the Grand Competition champion may make one reasonable request to the Sect. What do you desire?"

It had come. Lin Wan's heart stirred. He had long been thinking about this question. Spirit Stones? He did not lack them (the Grand Competition rewards were generous). Magical Artifacts? He had a choice of High Grade Magical Artifacts. Cultivation Technique? The "Little Five Elements Sword Technique" was enough for him to Cultivate to the Golden Core Stage. What he needed most now was a stable cultivation environment and... the Foundation to develop his Family.

"Reporting to the Elder, this Disciple does not ask for much." Lin Wan organized his thoughts and said respectfully, "First, this Disciple hopes to obtain a relatively independent and quiet Immortal Cave in the Inner Sect for quiet cultivation. Second, this Disciple's Dao Companion is already pregnant, and this Disciple hopes they can enter the Inner Sect with me to live and receive basic protection. Third, this Disciple is quite interested in miscellaneous studies such as Alchemy and talisman making, and hopes to have the Opportunity to learn them systematically."

He did not make excessive requests, such as asking for a specific amount of resources or who to take as a Revered Master. These, he assumed, the Elders present would have their own considerations. Sure enough, Xuan Zhenzi and Peak Master Yue Lingyun looked at each other and nodded slightly. Not greedy, knowing when to advance and retreat, and knowing how to secure practical benefits for himself and his Family—this child's Heart-Nature was indeed steady.

"The matter of the Immortal Cave is easy to handle. As the champion, you are entitled to a Grade B Immortal Cave. I will make the decision to grant you the 'Qingyun Cottage' at the foot of Tianjian Peak. This Immortal Cave has abundant Spiritual Qi, comes with three mu of spiritual fields, and has a simple Formation guarding it, enough for you and your Family to live and Cultivate." Peak Master Yue Lingyun spoke first, and as soon as he acted, it was a Grade B Immortal Cave with spiritual fields; this treatment was comparable to some ordinary Foundation Establishment Deacons.

"Thank you, Peak Revered Master!" Lin Wan was delighted and quickly thanked him.

"As for your Dao Companion entering the Inner Sect... according to the Sect's rules, Inner Sect Disciples may bring direct Family members to live in the Inner Sect, but must bear their own expenses. Since you are the champion, I will make an exception to allow your two Dao Companions to enter the Inner Sect, and you may transfer two servants from the Outer Sect. But they must abide by the Inner Sect's rules and must not cause trouble." Xuan Zhenzi added.

"This Disciple understands and will strictly discipline them." Lin Wan said. Being able to bring Liu Ruyan and Xiao Yun into the Inner Sect was already a great joy. As for the servants, he could just bring Xiao Hu over and find another reliable person.

"Alchemy, talisman making..." Xuan Zhenzi mused, "Baicao Hall and Tiangong Pavilion have Foundation Establishment Alchemists and Talisman Revered Masters giving public lectures every ten days; you may attend by presenting your Inner Sect Disciple status. If you have any questions, you can also spend contribution points to ask for advice. Whether you can achieve anything depends on your Comprehension Ability and perseverance."

"Thank you, Elder!" Lin Wan thanked him again. This was the best arrangement. Systematically learning the Dao of Alchemy and talismans was exactly what Liu Ruyan needed and could also lay the Foundation for the future of his Family.

"Lin Wan." Peak Master Yue Lingyun suddenly spoke, staring at him with burning eyes, "I observe that your Sword Dao talent is outstanding; you are a Sword Cultivator seedling that is rare in a hundred years. Are you willing to become my Disciple, enter my Tianjian Peak, and become a True Disciple?"

True Disciple! A True Disciple of a Golden Core Peak Revered Master! This status was far higher than that of an ordinary Inner Sect Disciple! It meant the top-tier Cultivation Techniques, resources, and backing! The other two Elders also looked at Lin Wan, waiting for his answer. Being able to be personally accepted as a Disciple by Peak Master Yue Lingyun, this child's future was limitless.

Lin Wan was also shaken. He had long expected that Peak Master Yue Lingyun would recruit him, but he did not expect to be directly accepted as a True Disciple. This temptation was too great. But he did not immediately agree; instead, he bowed and asked: "May I ask Peak Revered Master, if I join Tianjian Peak, what obligations must this Disciple fulfill? Are there any restrictions?"

The look of appreciation in Peak Master Yue Lingyun's eyes grew stronger. Not losing composure due to temptation, and asking about the pros and cons first—this child was indeed steady.

"Joining my Tianjian Peak, the first priority is to refine the Sword Dao, and one must not be slack. You must abide by the Sect rules and maintain the reputation of the Peak. You must go to the Chuangong Hall to listen to lectures every ten days and complete a certain number of Sect tasks every month. As for other things, there are not many restrictions. You can still Cultivate your five elements sword Technique and learn the Dao of Alchemy and talismans; I will not interfere. Even..." Peak Master Yue Lingyun paused, revealing a meaningful smile, "If you have the ability, take a few more Dao Companions, have a few more babies, and spread the branches and leaves for my Tianjian Peak; I would also be happy to see that."

Lin Wan: "..." This Peak Revered Master seemed to know some things about him? However, it sounded like the atmosphere on Tianjian Peak was quite free, which was just to his liking.

"This Disciple, Lin Wan, pays respects to Revered Master!" Lin Wan no longer hesitated, lifted his robes and knelt down, performing the three bows and nine kowtows to Peak Master Yue Lingyun.

"Hahaha! Good! Good! Good Disciple, get up quickly!" Peak Master Yue Lingyun laughed heartily, personally stepping forward to help Lin Wan up, becoming more satisfied the more he looked at him. "From today on, you are the seventh True Disciple under my, Yue Lingyun's, seat! I grant you the Tianjian Peak True Disciple token, which allows you to enter and exit most areas within the Peak freely, and you can receive three hundred Spirit Stones and one thousand contribution points per month. After you reach Foundation Establishment, there will be further rewards."

He took out a token that was silver-white throughout, with a sword engraved on the front and the two characters "Tianjian" engraved on the back, and handed it to Lin Wan.

"Thank you, Revered Master!" Lin Wan received it with both hands; it felt cool to the touch, and it was clearly not an ordinary object.

"Alright, since you have already taken me as your Revered Master, go with your Senior Martial Uncle Xuan Zhen to handle the promotion procedures and receive your Immortal Cave and rewards. Three days later, come to Lingyun Hall on Tianjian Peak to perform the formal apprenticeship ceremony, and I will then pass on the true transmission of the 'Qingyun Sword Canon' to you." Peak Master Yue Lingyun instructed.

"Yes, this Disciple takes his leave." Lin Wan bowed, then bowed to Xuan Zhenzi and the others, and only then retreated.

Walking out of the cottage, the sun was bright. Lin Wan held the heavy True Disciple token in his hand, looking at Tianjian Peak in the distance, shrouded in clouds and mist with hidden sword light, his heart surging.

Outer Sect Grand Competition, champion.

Peak Revered Master of Tianjian Peak, True Disciple.

New Immortal Cave, new starting point.

His path of immortal cultivation would enter a brand new stage from today.

And the tasks of the More Children More Fortune System would also continue to advance on a broader stage.

"Ruyan, Xiao Yun, we are going to enter the Inner Sect." Lin Wan looked towards the direction of home, a gentle smile appearing on his face.