Yuan's Ascension

Chapter 382: Kid, Would You Like To Be My Disciple

"A Sixth-Tribulation High Immortal, that’s the pinnacle of the immortal continent? Those who survive the seventh tribulation can become Archimmortals." Wu Yuan was taken aback.

He had looked into related information in the sect’s records and knew that it was extremely difficult to produce an Archimmortal. At least on the surface, the entire sect hadn't produced an Archimmortal in hundreds of millions of years.

However, over the course of hundreds of millions of years, the Dragon Star Immortal Sect had produced thousands of High Immortals.

"Haiyue, did you just say that Sword Immortal Dong Yang is an Eighth-Tribulation High Immortal? By your words, he should have already become an Archimmortal." Wu Yuan asked, puzzled.

Wu Yuan wasn’t too clear about the secrets surrounding High Immortals and Archimmortals.

"Indeed! With Sword Immortal Dong Yang’s unparalleled talent, he could have become an Archimmortal hundreds of thousands of years ago if he so wished," Zhuo Haiyue said. "But he chose an extremely difficult path—the Ninth-Tribulation Immortal Path."

"Countless powerful High Immortals dare not attempt it, choosing to become Archimmortals just after passing the Seventh Tribulation."

"Looking across the entire Silvermist Immortal Nation over the eons, the number of powerhouses who have walked this immortal path can be counted on two hands. [1] As for the Redmoon Immortal Continent? Not a single one." Zhuo Haiyue shook her head.

"Not a single one?" Wu Yuan was shocked.

Over the endless years, the immortal continent should have produced a batch of Archimmortals, but not a single one could walk the Ninth-Tribulation Immortal Path?

"What is this Ninth-Tribulation Immortal Path?" Wu Yuan asked curiously.

"It's a test by the heavens. If one chooses to become an Archimmortal after overcoming the Seventh Tribulation, they would be a Seventh-Tribulation Archimmortal, the most ordinary of all Archimmortals. Although one could live for a hundred million years, it's not guaranteed that one would truly live forever." Zhuo Haiyue was clearly well-versed with these secrets.

"They eventually have to undergo the Eighth and Ninth Immortal Tribulations. Only by completing the Ninth Tribulation can one truly live as long as heaven and earth." Zhuo Haiyue said.

"If that's so, why would Sword Immortal Dong Yang choose to undergo them in such a short span of time?" Wu Yuan didn't understand.

If it was only a matter of time before one had to undergo their Tribulation, why not wait until later to attempt it, when they had accrued greater strength?

"When an individual undergoes the Eighth and Ninth Immortal Tribulations at the High Immortal phase, the Tribulations they face are also weaker. Furthermore, there's no need to waste countless years before advancing to the next phase, allowing them to make far greater future achievements." Zhuo Haiyue explained.

"However, even though the Tribulations are weaker, High Immortals are also much weaker, so the relative difficulty is even greater, at least ten times harder."

"Throughout history, only the most powerful and determined High Immortals dare to choose the Ninth-Tribulation Immortal Path."

Wu Yuan understood.

The path of a Seventh-Tribulation Archimmortal was easy at first but difficult later, and one could live a carefree, unfettered life for a hundred million years.

The path of a Ninth-Tribulation High Immortal was difficult at first but easy later. A single misstep could spell death, but once successful, their power would rapidly surpass a Seventh-Tribulation Archimmortal.

The best choice depended on the individual.

"Throughout history, ninety-nine percent of all Archimmortals are Seventh-Tribulation Archimmortals," Zhuo Haiyue said, "Li Xia, do you understand what I mean?"

"Sword Immortal Dong Yang is stronger than many Archimmortals?" Wu Yuan blurted.

"It’s hard to say, a High Immortal has a smaller mana pool, but his understanding of the Dao might surpass many Archimmortals," Zhuo Haiyue replied. "When accepting disciples, the most important thing is to provide guidance in Dao comprehension."

Wu Yuan nodded in agreement.

Indeed! On the path of cultivation, the Dao was the foundation. With a deep understanding of the Dao, advancement in other areas followed naturally.

"The number of Eighth-Tribulation High Immortals recorded to exist in the immortal continent is miniscule. This is why I suggested that you join the Dragon Star Immortal Sect," Zhuo Haiyue looked at Wu Yuan. "As a sword cultivator, if Sword Immortal Dong Yang is willing to mentor you, it’s far more valuable than being taught by those Archimmortals from the Moonsilver World."

"After all, there are no Archimmortal-level sword immortals in the Moonsilver World."

Wu Yuan nodded slightly.

Zhuo Haiyue had indeed considered the matter thoroughly.

"Normally, given your astounding talent and the heavy price paid by the Dragon Star Immortal Sect, Sword Immortal Dong Yang should have accepted you as his disciple," said Zhuo Haiyue.

"But if he declines and another High Immortal steps in to mentor you? It would pale in comparison to the opportunities offered by the Moonsilver World," Zhuo Haiyue lamented, shaking her head. "It could impede your progress instead of fostering it."

Wu Yuan fell into deep thought.

Zhuo Haiyue's words made sense.

"The sect has treated me well," Wu Yuan shook his head.

"As a friend, I’m only here to tell you the truth," Zhuo Haiyue smiled. "What you wish to do and how you’d like to proceed, that's up to you."

"I can't help you much from here on," Zhuo Haiyue said.

Wu Yuan nodded.

When he was a nobody in the past, Zhuo Haiyue could pull some strings to help him from time to time.

But now? Zhuo Haiyue's influence might be vast, but she was only an Amethyst Cradle cultivator, her resources were limited and it was harder for her to lend him a hand.

"You've done a lot for me already," Wu Yuan said with a smile.

Without her, he would have been forced to take many detours.

Although he hadn't become Sword Immortal Dong Yang's disciple as of yet, who could predict the future?

The two continued chatting for a while more.

Unlike before, Wu Yuan's access rights and abilities had increased after becoming a member of the Dragon Star Immortal Hall, leading to an expansion of his perspective and knowledge.

Combined with the confidence gained from conquering level fifty-seven of the one-star tower, it could be argued that both of them were now true equals, both outwardly and inwardly.

"Li Xia, there's something I must confess." Zhuo Haiyue suddenly turned serious, "There’s another reason I've been helping you, aside from admiring your courage and wishing to befriend you. It is a personal agenda of mine."

"Oh? Personal agenda?" Wu Yuan's expression remained unchanged as he patiently awaited her explanation.

"I have a deep-seated grudge with a powerful faction. In the future, if I gain enough power, I will start a great war." Zhuo Haiyue said earnestly. "So, one of the reasons I helped you was because I hoped you would lend me your support once you grew stronger."

"So that's how it is. And here I thought you were a saint." Wu Yuan chuckled.

"You're not angry?" Zhuo Haiyue furrowed her brow in confusion.

"What’s there to be angry at?" Wu Yuan shook his head. "Everyone has their own motivations and agendas. Even parents, when dealing with their children, often have personal biases."

"If you are completely selfless, then you are a saint. But how many saints are there in the world?"

"I, Li Xia, judge actions, not intentions. You have my gratitude for your help," Wu Yuan said with a smile.

"You need not worry, even though I do not know who your enemy is. If you choose to seek revenge in the future, I will help you within my abilities."

"Your word is enough, thank you." Zhuo Haiyue lifted her cup, draining it in one gulp.

Wu Yuan mirrored her action with a smile.

With the matter resolved, the invisible barrier between them was lowered significantly, and they felt a subconscious closeness.

"Alright, Li Xia, I won't take up any more of your time. We can catch up again when we have the time," Zhuo Haiyue stood up. "If you run into any issues that you cannot deal with through Dragon Star Immortal Sect, let me know."

"Mm, if there's really something, I won't be shy to ask," Wu Yuan didn't hold her back. "I'll walk you out."

Given their current relationship, there was little need for unnecessary pleasantries.

Watching Zhuo Haiyue leave Dragon Star Island, Wu Yuan stood in the air above his mansion, lost in thought. The force that even Zhuo Haiyue refers to as a 'powerful faction' must be at least a first-rate sect, isn't it?

If it were a weaker faction, Zhuo Haiyue would probably have already wiped them out by now, given that she could already command Earth Immortals to do her bidding.

In the future, if I am strong enough, what's wrong with helping her to clear this karma? Wu Yuan didn't mind at all.

Being strong enough meant becoming an Earth Immortal at least, something that would only happen thousands of years later. Why worry about the future now?

On the contrary, on this long path of immortal cultivation, having a good friend with a strong background was not a bad thing and could bring many unexpected benefits.

For example, if Zhuo Haiyue hadn't told him, Wu Yuan wouldn't have known that the sect had paid a price of three hundred divine crystals.

...

In the Redmoon Immortal Realm, above Zhuo Star City.

My feud with the Fang Family is a secret to most, but the higher-ups of the Dragon Star Immortal Sect may be aware of it. Zhuo Haiyue tread in the air, overlooking the colossal city below. Li Xia will know sooner or later.

Her two previous attempts at persuasion had failed.

With Li Xia's talents coming to light and his status skyrocketing, Zhuo Haiyue could imagine that it wouldn't be long before Li Xia received the full support of the Dragon Star Immortal Sect.

Should she continue to keep things hidden?

No! Zhuo Haiyue chose to be frank, yet subtly concealed a few things. For example, she did not mention the Fang Family.

However, given Li Xia's intelligence, he wouldn't have a hard time guessing. Despite that, he still agreed right away? Zhuo Haiyue quietly mused.

She greatly admired Wu Yuan.

A promise was more than enough; she didn't expect Li Xia to risk his life to help her.

Hm, the trial assignment is here? Zhuo Haiyue glanced down and frowned slightly, Bloodforge?

They want me to participate in a Bloodforge Battle?

Hmph! This bunch of idiots from the Fang Family, they’re trying to kill me through my affiliation with the Moonsilver World? Zhuo Haiyue's eyes turned icy. Do they really think I have no means of revenge now?

Whoosh! Zhuo Haiyue moved swiftly, darting into the vast mansion of the Zhuo Family.

...

Several more days went by.

The commotion caused by Wu Yuan challenging the Seven Star Luminaries Tower gradually subsided, but the higher-ups of the Dragon Star Immortal Sect remained silent.

Still no good, huh? How high are Sword Immortal Dong Yang's demands? Wu Yuan stood in the Sky City of the world residence, overlooking the vast mundane world below.

To say Zhuo Haiyue's words had no effect on him would be a lie.

Let's go! I need to meet the senior first.

He had an appointment with the mysterious senior today for his usual tutorial session.

Swiftly, Wu Yuan arrived at an empty jade platform beside the Star Origin Soil and activated the array.

An invisible force enveloped him, isolating the area within a li.

Suddenly, a filthy elder materialized out of nowhere, revealing a mouthful of yellow teeth, "Boy, you're punctual."

"I wouldn't dare keep you waiting, Old Madman," Wu Yuan chuckled.

The two were now very familiar with each other.

In private, Wu Yuan would call the filthy elder 'Senior', but when they met face to face, he had grown accustomed to addressing him as ‘Old Madman’, as per his request.

"Hmm, respecting elders and nurturing the young is a tradition that must be upheld," Old Madman nodded, "It's been a month. Based on what you’ve learnt from the two sword codexes, attack me."

"Yes," Wu Yuan nodded.

Over the course of eight years, both had formed a fixed routine.

First, Wu Yuan would initiate an attack, employing the Dark Earth Sword Array. Then, Old Madman would counterattack with the Dark Earth Sword Array while Wu Yuan defended with the Star Ruins Sword Array. Finally, Old Madman would provide pointers for each technique respectively.

Whoosh! Boom! Swords lights sliced through the sky, both offensive and defensive techniques executed at an extremely fast pace.

Old Madman gave Wu Yuan pointers for improvement, and Wu Yuan learned earnestly.

Soon, the tutorial session came to a close.

"Not bad, kid. Both your Dark Earth Sword Array and Star Ruins Sword Array have significantly improved from a month ago." Old Madman eyed Wu Yuan.

He then chuckled, "Your performance today is far better than when you stormed the one-star tower. Have you been to the Dao Temple?"

His guess hit the mark.

"Yes." Wu Yuan nodded.

He trusted Old Madman greatly. Over the past eight years, although Wu Yuan had not formally become his disciple, Wu Yuan regarded the old man as his teacher in his heart.

The Dao could not be transmitted lightly. Wu Yuan was deeply grateful for his devoted instruction on sword techniques.

"It seems you've gained a lot from it. Did you comprehend the Land Dao or the Celestial Body Dao?" Old Madman casually asked.

"Celestial Body Dao." Wu Yuan replied.

"Good choice." Old Madman nodded. "You have great aptitude for the Celestial Body Dao. You should follow the path that suits you best."

"However, the insights from the Dao Temple cannot be digested in a short time. They will subtly influence you. It’s more appropriate to cultivate diligently for at least a hundred years before undergoing the perception experience again." Old Madman added.

Clearly, Old Madman was very familiar with the Dao Temple.

"Yes." Wu Yuan nodded, silently taking note.

A hundred years? To undergo the perception experience of the Celestial Body Dao from the Dao Temple once, he had to earn two points.

That was enough of a challenge for Wu Yuan.

"Kid, I bet you've been pretty confused these days." Old Madman grinned. "Despite the chaos you've caused, no higher-up from the sect has spoken with you. It's as if they've forgotten you. You must be dissatisfied, eh?"

"I wouldn't dare." Wu Yuan shook his head.

"It's only human to harbor dissatisfaction. If I were you, I would feel the same." Old Madman chuckled, "Besides, that little miss Zhuo Haiyue probably told you about the failed special recruitment from the Moonsilver World."

Wu Yuan was taken aback, but quickly regained his composure. Indeed, it was hard to keep such a matter under wraps.

"The higher-ups in the sect did have a cultivation plan for you, but I've temporarily halted them all." Old Madman chuckled.

Wu Yuan was stunned.

"Old Madman, why?" Wu Yuan couldn't help but ask.

"Your talent is decent. There are only two people in the sect who can teach you without wasting your talent. One is my junior brother Dongyang, and the other is me." Old Madman chuckled, "Kid, I'll ask you now."

"Would you like to be my disciple?"

1. the actual raws was “can be counted on two hands”. But the actual number was revealed later, and no, you can’t count it on two hands ☜