Paradise of Demonic Gods

by Stayrr

“Obtaining the topmost degree of talent in sword arts in the world requires giving up 72 years of lifespan, which leaves you with only five more years of your life. At the same time, you will never be able to feel love, kinship, and friendship, and you’ll end up leading a lonely life until your death, unable to procreate, or to have any descendants. “From now onwards, everything r

10. 303

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Chapter 303 Synthesis

In the days which followed, Fang Xingjian and James stayed together for almost twenty-four hours a day, fully spending all their time and effort on sword training.

With James, the best teacher around, Fang Xingjian's cultivation seemed to have reached his current limits.

In fact, if the people from the Great Western Region were to find out that James was accompanying Fang Xingjian in his sword training everyday, probably 90% or more of the people would be green with envy.

Right now, Fang Xingjian had the enhancement from his four major specialties, namely Genius Swordsmanship, Sword Specialist, Level 1 Unparalleled Sword Intent, and Darkness Sword Sense, as well as the strengthening effect of the ether particles with one hundred times the density.

Fang Xingjian also had the world's best sword arts talent and the guidance of James, who was a level 29 Conferred Knight, the Regional Academy's Headmaster, and the Great Western Region's Governor from two generations ago. With these, the improvement rate of Fang Xingjian's sword arts cultivation increased at a tremendous speed.

Especially since Fang Xingjian had such an outstanding teacher, he was able to relearn the Ninety Thousand Godly Demon Flash whenever. He could even ask James about whether there were tricks for synthesizing techniques.

Undoubtedly, there were indeed tricks for synthesizing techniques. Other than subjecting the success rate to the ether synchronization rate, it was also possible to extract the essence of two techniques and better control one's thoughts during the synthesization process in order to increase the success rate slightly.

Within a few days time, Fang Xingjian brought his Ninety Thousand Godly Demon Flash to the maximum level for a total of five times. He also attempted skill synthesis five times until he finally succeeded in synthesizing the Ninety Thousand Godly Demon Flash into the Luminous Heaven Soaring Slash.

In the training room, a light sword appeared in Fang Xingjian's hand. WIth a slash, a scorching heat wave was sent out. Wherever the light sword passed by, the ground near it was scorched black.

Next, Fang Xingjian tightened his grip on the light sword, and its light turned from white to blue. He slashed out again, and instantly, a chilling gust of air was sent forth, causing layers of ice and frost to appear on the ground.

A satisfied smile emerged on Fang Xingjian's face. Then the light sword he was holding suddenly surged upward, seeming to turn into a myriad of lights and shadows which encompassed him.

The expression in James' gaze turned serious as he said, "The Supreme Mistwind Sword together with the Radiant Light Sword Technique, and then the Ninety Thousand Godly Demon Flash… Is it the Zenith Light Sword Formation? " Clearly, the synthesis of these three sets of sword techniques had already been figured out by someone before.

James then said, "With the Ninety Thousand Godly Demon Flash's special effect added in, one sword will become multiple swords, enabling the use of sword formations. You can try out its prowess."

Therefore, the Luminous Heaven Soaring Slash became the Zenith Light Sword Formation and allowed the user to create fluctuating light swords which had temperatures ranging from -100 degrees celsius to 2000 degrees celsius. It could also create light swords to set up light sword formations, allowing Fang Xingjian to become stronger once again.

Moreover, Fang Xingjian's Zenith Light Sword Formation was at an extremely high level of 40. Be it the prowess of the fluctuating light swords or the sword formations, both of them far surpassed the prowess of an ordinary Zenith Light Sword Formation.

The overwhelming light swords condensed and then turned into six floating light spheres. They hovered behind Fang Xingjian like floating batteries, presenting a fan shape formation.

At his thought, streams of light swords shot out from the light spheres and hit against the ground. In that instant, large areas of charred or frosted surfaces were formed.

Fang Xingjian then put his palms together with his fingers clenched down. The light swords, which had shot out from the six light spheres, immediately merged together, forming a light pillar and then sweeping down toward the ground. Under this sustained heat, the surface started to melt and crystallize.

However, this was just an experiment after all. So, the light sword withdrew upon one touch, and Fang Xingjian ended the Zenith Light Sword Formation.

James continued to nod as he said, "The prowess of your Zenith Light Sword Formation far surpasses that of the others in your generation. The synthesis of these three sets of sword techniques is very powerful, and as we move on to synthesizing with a fourth sword technique, fifth sword technique, and so on… the number of known synthesis combinations gets increasingly fewer in number."

As he continued to speak, his tone became excited, "If you choose to synthesize with a sword technique which hasn't been attempted with before, a new combination will appear."

Right now, Fang Xingjian was simply an amazing treasure in James' eyes. After having given Fang Xingjian guidance for the past few days, he completely understood just how terrifying Fang Xingjian's talent was.

Before this, he had been the same as the others in thinking that Fang Xingjian's wish to become the National Champion one year later was mere arrogance. This was because Fang Xingjian was still too young.

However, now, it seemed that it was not completely impossible.

James seemed to be anticipating the moment when Fang Xingjian would participate in the National Selection and astonish everyone with his performance.

Fang Xingjian heard James' words but merely shook his head and said, "Next, I plan to first cultivate the four sets of sword techniques I learned from the Killing Techniques Palace and then synthesize them."

The synthesis combination of the four sets of sword techniques from the Killing Techniques Palace had been deeply researched by generations of Governors and had only been obtained after repeated polishing. After the four sets of sword techniques were synthesized, one would be able to obtain a set of ultimate Killing technique, the Prodigious Demolition Sword. This was a set of sword technique which had been created for annihilation and destruction.

James nodded in agreement when he heard Fang Xingjian's plan. Simultaneously, his mind was already starting to churn out ideas. What if the Prodigious Demolition Sword and the Zenith Light Sword Formation were to be synthesized together…? There did not seem to be anyone who had already found out what sword technique would be created when these two sword techniques were successfully synthesized.

There were too many sword arts Killing techniques in this world… too many varieties as well as too many different combinations, and they were all waiting to be discovered.

James began to anticipate the result of the synthesization of the Prodigious Demolition Sword and the Zenith Light Sword Formation.

His Prodigious Demolition Sword had reached the maximum level since a long time ago, but he would still need to take at least a year or two to go through cultivation and synthesis before reaching the maximum level for the Zenith Light Sword Formation. This meant that during the next one or two years, he would not have any time to cultivate his own martial techniques.

There were countless synthesis combinations like this, and even he was unable to study them one by one.

"Hehe," James started to secretly feel excited. "If a cultivation method were to be created for a sword technique like this, it would be sufficient for it to be reported to the central government, and it would go all the way to the Knight Association's Sword Arts Shrine."

Sword Arts Shrine was the greatest glory to the Empire's sword arts. Only extremely powerful sword techniques would be entered into the Sword Arts Shrine, gaining boundless glory. It would also become a sword technique which all factions and influences would fight to purchase.

As he thought of this, James had an increasingly pleasant opinion of Fang Xingjian. As James thought of how there was still a possibility for a set of sword technique from the Great Western Region Regional Academy to enter into the Sword Arts Shrine while he was still alive, he could not hold in his excitement.

However, Fang Xingjian suddenly sat down, giving James a fright. James then asked him, "What's the matter?"

Fang Xingjian said calmly, "My ether synchronization rate has reached 20%. The second barrier to the Ten Heavenly Barriers seems to be coming soon."

Concurrently, just as Fang Xingjian had been in the Regional Academy for a month, his Rebirth Sword Technique had also been reported to the central government and was about to receive judgement from the Knight Association.

By the end of the month, the 'Rebirth Sword Technique' was published in the Knight's handbook and distributed to various academies, factions, and departments.

However, people had varying opinions about the 'Rebirth Sword Technique'.

"5,000 potential points? This author must be crazy! Has he gone crazy from thinking about money?"

"Ridiculous! How could there possibly be such a strong effect…? Hmm… But it was examined by Hoppes, hmm…. Tommy, get a new student here and let him learn this set of sword technique."

In Knight Academy, Headmaster Jackson also flipped through this edition of the Knight's handbook. He looked at the Rebirth Sword Technique and shook his head. "He's too anxious."

For Fang Xingjian to have created his own Nurturing technique despite just having become a Conferred Knight… Jackson believed Fang Xingjian had been too anxious in making progress.

However, after giving it some thought, he then said, "After all, he is someone who came from our academy. We need to give him some support. Victor, go find a student to practice this Rebirth Sword Technique and see how it is."

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Chapter 304 Level 21

In the training room, Fang Xingjian looked at his Stats Window. His ether synchronization rate had reached 20%.

When James heard what he said, he got a bad fright, "20%? Hasn't it been less than a month since you completed your job transition? How has it increased so quickly?"

With that said, he carried Fang Xingjian and said, "Hang in there. When you're trying to get past the Ten Heavenly Barriers, you can't do it in the Sacred Land with one hundred times density."

The Ten Heavenly Barriers… With each 10% increase in one's ether synchronization rate, one would receive more information and the body's sensory organs would go through a qualitative change. One would need great willpower and mental strength to overcome such changes.

For such a barrier, the environment would, of course, be an important factor. Sacred Land with one hundred times density would be a great place to cultivate, but when one was trying to pass through the Heavenly Barrier, it would be complete hell.

One hundred times the usual amount of information perceived would be the greatest bullet and could turn a Conferred Knight into a fool.

Therefore James panicked. He carried Fang Xingjian, dashed into the air, and started heading off.

With a boom, the entire house was blasted by his Reduced Force Field, turning into shattered ruins from the explosion.

And before it completely exploded, James had already dashed into the air.

Fang Xingjian was a genius that was hard to find a single time in a hundred, no, a thousand years. He had even resolved the profound mysteries of the Pantheon Monument. Especially since he had only just gotten his hands on the mysteries behind the first level of the Pantheon Monument, how could James allow Fang Xingjian to be ruined here? He continued to accelerate, dashing across the sky like a fire meteor.

'I've been too careless, really too careless.

'It''s unthinkable that Fang Xingjian not only has great talent in sword arts, but his ether synchronization rate also increases so quickly.

'The success rate of passing the Ten Heavenly Barriers in the Sacred Land is too low. I wonder if Xingjian…'

Just as James was thinking about this, Fang Xingjian's voice rang out, "There's no need to fly anymore, I'm fine."

"Fine?" James stared at Fang Xingjian with wide eyes. He asked, "You're sure you're fine? The 20% Heavenly Barrier should be an emotional impact?"

"Emotional impact?" Fang Xingjian blinked and said, "I think, I can really see many emotions. Your anxiety, my…"

Fang Xingjian was stunned for a moment and discovered that he had a pathetically small number of emotions in him.

"The human brain is also formed from ether particles and it fluctuates constantly. If one could gather information from the fluctuations, one would also be able to read a person's emotions." James looked at Fang Xingjian, slightly surprised. "You… you've already passed the first Heavenly Barrier?"

His emotions were fluctuating far more than what was shown on his face. Ten Heavenly Barriers… It was clear from the just name how much Conferred Knights feared these barriers between the increases of their ether synchronization rate. It was because they were too difficult to pass.

Yet now, Fang Xingjian had actually broken through from Sacred Land with one hundred times density and quietly passed it without any notice.

This was the first time that James started to suspect that Fang Xingjian might really be able to progress leaps and bounds within a year and then participate in the National Selection.

Of course, it was still unrealistic for him to get first place since the competition was too intense, and one year was just too short.

However, Fang Xingjian only continued to look at James who was still looking at him.

In the image within his mind, the world within ten meters of him started to have extra things. They were colors which he could not describe. He could not say what colors they were since they essentially could not come into contact with light, thus he was unable to describe the colors.

However, Fang Xingjian was able to see these colors through Heaven's Perception. Although he could not describe these colors, he knew what each of them represented.

'This is fury.. this is… anxiety? Is this happiness?'

He looked at James and the various colorful emotions on him before checking himself out. He realized that it was almost empty around him. There were only lumps of 'fury' and 'vengeance' gathered. They seemed to be palpitating and ready to explode at any moment.

'Is this the result of taking away feelings of love, kinship, and friendship?

'Fury and vengeance need to be unleashed when accumulated to a certain degree?'

Fang Xingjian clenched his fists and said, "Synchronization rate of 20%… I can now level up to level 21, right? Can the academy provide me with some ferocious beasts to kill?"

"Of course, that's not a problem. However, you need to be extra careful in the future. When your ether synchronization rate reaches 29%, don't continue cultivating in the Sacred Land with one hundred times density. It's too risky."

Fang Xingjian nodded but did not really pay it much heed. It was because when he first stepped into the Sacred Land with one hundred times density, he already understood that his brain far surpassed those of ordinary people, and normal informational impacts would not be able to hurt him.

Moreover, he did not have much time left. To give up the one hundred times density and train the last 1% to reach the next barrier was too much of a waste of time.

At the same time, in the Northern Ice Region Regional Academy.

Sacred Land with 120 times density.

A guy whose face was covered by a thick beard, looking like a wild man, was holding onto a book and reading.

Next to him, a student said, "Brother Rehlings, hehe, this time around, the Headmaster handed the job of going through the Knight's handbook to you the moment you came out of seclusion. It seems like he really hopes that you can stay in the Northern Ice Region and inherit his legacy in the future."

The guy called Rehlings shook his head and said indifferently, "A dragon does not live with snakes. There's no reason for the strong to accommodate to the weak.

"Moreover, when a Conferred Knight reaches level 25, their body structure won't be the same as ordinary humans. At level 29, they would be like a totally different species.

"To commoners, we're like the gods from high above. Gods don't accommodate to humans nor do they work hard for the commoners' futures.

"The Headmaster still doesn't understand this. This is why he has stagnated at level 29.

"We have godlike powers, and thus must have the mind of one. Only when the mind and body are compatible would one be able to try to attain Divine level.

"However, each publication of this Knight's handbook has gathered all of the most advanced information of the Empire's martial arts and it is really good stuff. The National Selection will be starting in another eleven months, and if I can continue to read the Knight's handbook like this, it'll be very helpful to me."

The student could only look at Rehlings enviously. The association would issue the latest copy of the Knight's handbook every month. This handbook gathered the research results of the various geniuses in the Empire, and not every had the right and privilege to read it.

He then said, "I heard that the Great Western Region has produced a genius recently. I think he's called… Fang Xingjian? He is extremely arrogant, and he went overboard with the blowing of his own horn, saying that he cleared their Sword Arts Department's Killing Techniques Palace within a day. Isn't he scared that he's not able to produce results even after all that bragging?"

"Oh? Fang Xingjian?" Rehlings seemed to be recalling something and said, "It's that Fang Xingjian who cleared all seven levels of mysteries of the Pantheon Monument?"

"Right, that's the one. He is very amazing to have cleared all seven levels of mysteries of the Pantheon Monument, but saying that he cleared the Killing Techniques Palace within a day… The people from the academy must have gone easy on him."

There were truly many Knights and Conferred Knights who had, in the course of history, boasted about how strong they were. To this student, Fang Xingjian was just another one.

However, Rehlings shook his head and said, "The Great Western Region's Hoppes is an important character, and he researches sword arts very seriously. He wouldn't resort to such trickery."

"Even if he didn't do it, other people could still have done it."

Rehlings did not comment on this. However, his gaze changed in the midst of reading the Knight's handbook. He said, "What a coincidence. A set of sword technique created by Fang Xingjian has been entered into this publication of the Knight's handbook."

"It has entered the Knight's handbook? What sword technique is it?"

"Mmm, let me take a look… It's a Nurturing sword technique? It doesn't look like much… Mmm? Wait a minute…"

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Chapter 305 Invitation

Along with the student's astonished gaze, Rehlings fell completely silent, appearing as if he was deeply engrossed with reading the Knight's handbook. When the student saw this, he scratched his head in curiousity and had a strong urge to snatch the handbook over for a look.

However, he did not dare to do this. He knew that every time Rehlings got into this condition, it meant that he had comprehended something new. If he were to interrupt him at this moment, he would definitely be minced into ground meat.

After about slightly over half an hour, Rehlings lifted his head and let out a long exhale. He then slowly spoke out two words, "Amazing."

"Amazing? What is?"

"This Fang Xingjian is amazing, very amazing." Rehlings said. "This Rebirth Sword Technique is excellent and has given me great inspiration. I'm going back into seclusion to train. I feel that I'll be able to make further progress with my saber arts."

"Ahh, but didn't you just come out of seclusion?"

Rehlings had already turned and left, saying with indifference, "Tell Headmaster to get someone to cultivate this Rebirth Sword Technique. One more thing, send an invitation to Great Western Region and find a way to invite Fang Xingjian over.

"There are many things I wish to discuss with him."

"Huh? The Great Western Region is so far away. Why would he come here for no reason?"

"That's something for you guys to think about. Just do your best to invite him over. You can't possibly be asking me to be the one to head over there, right?"

Within half a month, countless factions were stunned by Fang Xingjian's Rebirth Sword Technique written in the Knight's handbook. There were both praises and condemnations toward the results.

Some people felt that Fang Xingjian was both arrogant and ignorant. It was impossible for the technique to provide 5,000 potential points.

Of course, there were also people who were extremely supportive of Fang Xingjian. The reason being that Hoppes was the one who had examined the technique and Fang Xingjian having an amazing record of having solved all seven levels of the Pantheon Monument and having cleared all the stages of the Killing Techniques Palace within a day.

If you wished to gain people's trust, you would need to take gradual steps to earn it. If Fang Xingjian was a nobody in the past, even if a large number of people had come across the Rebirth Sword Technique, they would just skip past it and not even give it a second look.

And it was thanks to the support from sword arts master Hoppes as well as the two records previously set by Fang Xingjian that there was now the strong debate.

In addition, in order to calm everyone down, there must of course be people who had successfully picked up the Rebirth Sword Technique, and it would be even better if they could reach level 10 in it.

However, after half a month, there had yet to be anyone to truly manage to pick up this complicated sword technique which combined one hundred sets of Nurturing sword techniques. This caused society's debate to become even stronger.

However, this debate did not affect Fang Xingjian. For the past half month, other than finding time to kill ferocious beasts to level up, as well as that one time he had dropped by to check out the Sword Tower, he had spent almost all of his time cultivating his sword techniques together with James.

This allowed him to successfully bring his Thunderbolt Sword Technique to the maximum level of 40. And after bringing the Mountain Shifting Sword to the maximum level with seven consecutive practices, he finally succeeded in synthesizing both sword techniques together, obtaining the Thunder Immuring Earth Sword. This technique allowed the user to stimulate the geomagnetism of the earth with electricity, turning flat land into mountains and mountains into valleys. It was a powerful sword technique which allowed one to change the terrain as one wished.

It could even conduct thunderbolts through the humongous conductor, earth, and from there, electrocute the opponents without a sound.

Of course, not only did Fang Xingjian's sword techniques level up, so did his level. The Prodigious Astral Divine Powers Waves had also been raised from level 1 to level 2. After the past half month, Fang Xingjian had gone up to level 21. As he had also been tempering his attributes incessantly, his attributes now became:

Name Fang Xingjian

Age 17

Occupation Heavenly Sword Sovereign

Level 21

Strength 1037

Agility 2057

Reaction 100

Endurance 76

Flexibility 76

Ether Synchronization Rate 24%

The attributes above come into effect once the Prodigious Astral Divine Powers Waves is activated.

Due to Perfect Muscles, 7 in strength and agility (10% of the endurance attribute).

Skills / Techniques: Boundaries Negation,

Level 40 Rebirth Sword Technique,

Level 40 New Nine-Headed Dragon Sword Technique,

Level 40 Zenith Light Sword Formation,

Ether Sword Ripples,

Level 4 Ether Divine Art,

Level 40 Thunder Immuring Earth Sword,

Level 14 Aquatic Sword Formation,

Level 1 Lightless Sword

Specialties: Genius Swordsmanship,

Elementary Survival Instinct,

Internal Healing,

Internal Training,

Sword Specialist,

Heightened Reflexes,

Perfect Muscles,

Single Sword World Subjugation,

Elementary Berserkness,

Level 1 Unparalleled Sword Intent

Sword Bones,

Swordless Path,

Darkness Sword Sense,

Heavenly Sword Imprint

Waves Level 2 Prodigious Astral Divine Powers Waves

Mental Cultivation Method Level 5 Universal Sword Dominance Lunisolar

Potential 30,000 point increase/day

Within half a month, both Fang Xingjian's strength and reaction had officially attained a breakthrough past 100 points. His Terra Ingurgitation had also improved due to the prowess from the leveled up Prodigious Astral Divine Powers Waves. It could now extend out to two kilometers.

The tremendous improvement to his cultivation level allowed the speed at which he performed his sword techniques to be increasingly faster. This also let James feel a little pressure. Therefore, the speed of their training increased, forming an increasingly good cycle.

On this day, Fang Xingjian was controlling hundreds of Aquatic Sword Qis, endlessly unleashing various sword techniques. Sword Qis swept about with great ease, and strong gales howled. It was as if many high frequency swords were slashing to and fro, causing the air to tremble, releasing thunderous sounds.

After a short period of training, he heard someone calling from outside. Fang Xingjian's ears twitched slightly and he headed out. As he walked out, even his footsteps seemed to have a hint of a skip in it. He appeared to be in quite a good mood.

When he opened the door, he saw Zhou Xingwen, the guy who had once tried to persuade Fang Xingjian to loan out his Sacred Land. Zhou Xingwen was standing there, holding a lunchbox as he looked at Fang Xingjian with a face full of smiles.

"Xingjian, this is a level 20 Lightning Fish which just arrived. The whole fish weighs thirty jin [1]. I've already gotten someone to cut it up for you."

This was not the first time Zhou Xingwen had brought food over this month. Zhou Xingwen did not seem to be a stranger to the room, and he walked in, opening the box and dishing out several plates on the table.

"Tsk tsk, this Lightning Fish is good stuff. Especially now that it's mid-August, the period where the Lightning Fish are the freshest and most delicious. They still have hints of electricity in their bodies, and when you eat it, there's a numbing sensation stimulating your tongue."

Fang Xingjian sat quietly at the side, eyes fixed on the fish on the plates. The fish was separated into various parts. Its belly, skin, and other parts were all cooked using different methods.

Zhou Xingwen brought a plate to Fang Xingjian. It was a pink colored piece of meat. He said, "This is the fish's belly, the tenderest part of the entire Lightning Fish. In one Lightning Fish, at most only one-tenth of its meat is this.

"It's best to eat this raw. You'll be able to feel its tenderness and freshness to the fullest."

As Zhou Xingwen spoke, even he could not hold it in and gulped. "Because this part is the fattest and tenderest, there's a high requirement for the chef's knife skills. If it's sliced too thinly, it will lose its chewiness, and if it's sliced too thickly, it will taste very greasy. I'd specially requested the Regional Chief's masterchef to help prepare this fish."

Fang Xingjian picked up one piece and ate it. Instantly, he could feel the juice of the flesh exploding out. The texture of the meat was very plump and bouncy, as if it was jumping on its teeth.

There was still that slight electrifying and numbing feeling which further escalated the sensation.

"There's still the mid-belly, fish neck, and fish lean meat. These are all to be eaten raw.

"The chin and bones have all been grilled with a secret sauce.

"The cheeks and eyes have been cooked into seafood chowder."

The dishes were gradually placed before Fang Xingjian. It was a fish feast that was made entirely from one full Lightning Fish.

When Fang Xingjian drank the thick, cream-like fish soup, Fang Xingjian's brows could not help but twitch a little.

He looked at the 'fury' and 'vengeance' around his chest and noticed that they had been reduced by a little.

He thought to himself, 'Is it as expected, that eating delicacies will reduce a little of my hatred and fury? It's no wonder that ever since I entered the Regional Academy, I've never blown up from anger because of the circulation of my mental cultivation method.'

[1] Unit measurement of weight. One jin is the equivalent of 500 grams.

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Chapter 306 Request

The moment he started eating the Lightning Fish, hints of electric currents were transmitted through Fang Xingjian's nerves.

It might have been because he saw Fang Xingjian trembling a little after his nerves had been stimulated by electric currents that Zhou Xingwen said, "Eating the Lightning Fish also has the effect of stimulating the nerves and improving how the nerves transmit information. It'll increase one's reaction attribute."

After drinking the last bit of fish soup, Fang Xingjian smacked his lips and said, "This fish is truly not bad."

He then lifted his head and threw Zhou Xingwen a glance, saying, "You've given me quite a few good items for the past half month. What request do you have? Go ahead and say it."

It was impossible for Zhou Xingwen to be so obliging for no reason at all. The reason that he had been sending food for such a long period of time but had not yet made a single request was only because he felt that the more Fang Xingjian ate, the less pressure he himself would feel when he voiced his request.

Therefore, when he heard Fang Xingjian's words, Zhou Xingwen's heart trembled slightly. However, he kept a straight face and said, "It's nothing. I know that you, Xingjian, like good food and since I know quite a lot in this particular area, I've brought you some.

"You have a bright future before you. I just hope that you won't forget about me then."

Seeing how Zhou Xingwen had become meek, Fang Xingjian shook his head and said, "You're not being honest here. I like to eat food, but if you continue to stay silent, I can always look for someone else to help buy food for me."

When Zhou Xingwen heard this, he immediately said, "Xingjian, don't. Look at me, I am thick skinned and am used to having a glib tongue. I'll be honest, it's nothing much. I just saw that the book that you have published together with Ferdinand and the others seemed to be selling very well…"

At Zhou Xingwen's current age and cultivation level, he no longer had the courage to continue taking risks to level up, but was now more interested in things like wealth and power

After all, not every person, every single Conferred Knight, would be able to bear with loneliness and take the risks of becoming a vegetable or a lunatic just in order to become stronger.

It was especially so for Zhou Xingwen, who had already become a Conferred Knight. He had far too many things he could enjoy, while with just a wave of his hand, he could get his hands on countless beauties as well as endless delicacies and treasures. Therefore, he gradually could not be bothered to focus on his training, eventually diving into the world of materialism.

However, he also knew that there were still many people above him who would be able to crush him easily. This was why he had started saloons, clubs, and had become an intermediary for Westerners. He had even helped Wang Tiangang, the person ranked ninth in the academy, to deal with stuff. The reason why he had done all these was so that he could form connections and find someone to back him up.

And now, Fang Xingjian had appeared before him. The strength and talent Fang Xingjian had shown only made him feel that this was a rare chance that he could not let slip by. This was why he had thought of trying to get close to Fang Xingjian.

And how could he form a connection with Fang Xingjian? The only method he could think of was for them to have common interests.

However, Fang Xingjian shook his head and said, "I've left the matters with regards to the publishing of books to Ferdinand. If you have matters about that, you can go look for him directly. I don't have much energy to put into business management."

"I know, I know." Zhou Xingwen sat next to Fang Xingjian and continued, "I'm not referring to the area of selling physical books, but the part about authorizing sword techniques."

"Authorization of sword techniques? You're referring to my Rebirth Sword Technique?" Fang Xingjian took a piece of paper, wiped his mouth, and said, "Although my Rebirth Sword Technique has been entered into the Knight's handbook, it seems that no one has managed to pick it up even now. You think so well of this set of sword technique?"

"Hehe, that's only because the people who are criticizing it don't know any better." Zhou Xingwen seemed to have forgotten that when he had first seen this sword technique, he had also viewed it with disdain.

However, he had recently specially questioned Wang Tiangang, who had seen the Rebirth Sword Technique before. Although Zhou Xingwen did not know of the principle behind the sword arts theories for the sword technique, one thing was for sure—Wang Tiangang had started to secretly learn the Rebirth Sword Technique.

"I think that there'll be people who will manage to pick it up in at most another half a month." Zhou Xingwen tried to flatter and smiled, saying, "Isn't this why I've come earlier to bring up this topic with you? I hope that you can let me handle the management of the Rebirth Sword Technique's authorizations. I'll guarantee to fight for you to get the greatest interest."

Being the authorized agent, Zhou Xingwen would represent Fang Xingjian to discuss the price, durations and other aspects of the authorization with the other academies, factions, military, and other concerned parties.

After all, with how busy Fang Xingjian was, there was no way that he would have the time to handle all that business talk.

It went to show how much Zhou Xingwen's status and reputation would grow if he could become the authorized agent for a sword technique like the Rebirth Sword Technique.

Zhou Xingwen felt that this set of sword technique was a revolutionary one, and could even change how sword arts in the country would progress. Regarding this aspect, Zhou Xingwen might have thought further compared to people like Hoppes, who merely pursued it for a higher level of mastery and skills.

However, Fang Xingjian continued to shake his head and said, "I've already promised to hand this to Ferdinand. His clan has connections with quite a number of schools."

"Then I won't get involved with academies," Zhou Xingwen said. "Although Ferdinand's clan might have some connections with academies, they are just a clan in a small prefecture, and they might not have any connections in other areas.

"For example, the various major factions, or major influences such the Church of Universal Truth. There's also the Empire's military strongholds, undercover agents, as well as Imperial troops. They would probably not be that familiar with these areas, right?

"Myself and the Western Society backing me up, we have deeper connections and will definitely be able to bring you greater benefits. Our alliance will definitely be a win-win situation."

The Empire referred to those who came from the distant end of the Western Sea, the people with yellow skin and black eyes, as Westerners.

People like Zhou Xingwen and Wang Tiangang were both descendants of Westerners and the Western Society which Zhou Xingwen had set up was an organization similar to a clansmen association. It was also the group which he had once invited Fang Xingjian to join in the past.

Hearing Zhou Xingwen's suggestion, Fang Xingjian was enticed. Although it would not be a problem for Ferdinand to have talks with academies, they did not have a strong enough backing to be liaising with other factions, as well as the various military forces, undercover agents, and dark influences. After all, Ferdinand's clan was not of high-level aristocracy to begin with.

If Zhou Xingwen's Western Society could help handle the deals for these areas, it would be much better.

Fang Xingjian nodded and said, "I think that we can try to work something out, but you guys will not have the final say. You can discuss the details with Ferdinand and then let me know the results after you guys have come to a conclusion."

Hearing Fang Xingjian's words, Zhou Xingwen got very excited. He nodded and said, "Xingjian, trust me. You definitely won't regret this. Our Western Society's potential is not as simple as a school saloon's.

"I'll go look for Ferdinand right away."

While speaking, Zhou Xingwen stood, excited. He then suddenly said, "Right, Xingjian, what other things do you like to eat? I'll get someone to send them to you in a few days' time."

"It doesn't matter what they are, as long as it's a ferocious beast and it tastes good."

"Hehe. Alright, I'll get them prepared." With that, Zhou Xingwen smiled secretly to himself and left.

Not long after, James walked in.

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Chapter 307 Ancient Era

The moment James walked in, he asked, "Why is it that no one has managed to learn your Rebirth Sword Technique even after half a month has passed?"

Fang Xingjian said with indifference, "This is very normal. Before they've verified the authenticity of the Rebirth Sword Technique, they won't send their highly talented geniuses to spend time on learning it.

"Right now, the people they've sent to ascertain the effects must be those unimportant Knights. With their talent, it would be very normal for them to take one or even two months before managing to learn it. There's some difficulty to my Rebirth Sword Technique, after all."

James shook his head, saying, "You're really not anxious at all. Do you know you've been badly criticized? Many people are calling you a liar." As he spoke, he sniffed with his nose and suddenly looked toward the grilled fish on the table.

"What is this?"

"A fish banquet made from a Lightning Fish. There's still some lean porridge and grilled fish made from its bone. Do you want some?"

James smiled and sat down. "Although the Lightning Fish isn't considered expensive, it does take a little effort for one to get his hands on this. You really have a lot of good things."

Fang Xingjian smiled and also picked up a piece of grilled fish. The lean portion of the fish was very toned to begin with and after the addition of some grilled sauce on it, the fish had become a rare delicacy. The fish bones were crispy to begin with, and after grilling, it had a unique charred fragrance.

James ate as he spoke,."Why haven't you been to the Sword Tower recently? There's been a new discovery but Hoppes hasn't had the time to study it. He's been spending all his time on the revamped sword techniques for aerial battle as of late. Do you want to go take a look at it?"

Fang Xingjian frowned and asked, "What is it exactly? Before I've managed to master the Prodigious Demolition Sword, I don't really wish to be distracted by other things."

"Your progress is already fast enough. It's good to take a break." Head of Department James continued, "Moreover, this discovery isn't an ordinary one. It was salvaged from a sunken ship and it seems to be an item from the Ancient Era. No one has been able to recognize the words on it, but it should hold the secrets to a set of sword technique."

"Ancient Era? What era is that?" Hearing that no one could even recognize the words, Fang Xingjian wanted to reject studying it immediately. He had no time to spend on studying history.

James shook his head and asked, "Have you not been attending your culture classes?"

"Do I look like I have the time to?"

James's lips twitched and he said, "The Ancient Era refers to an era at least 2,000 years back. It was an era filled with mysteries and questions.

"From the artifacts that they've managed to salvage and study, it seemed that there was quite a powerful civilization in the Ancient Era, possibly even better than what we have now.

"However, for a reason unknown to date, the Ancient Era suddenly ended. Its civilization fell and then various ethnic groups and nations slowly started to develop."

James sighed and said, "It's still a mystery as to what actually happened in the Ancient Era. However, one thing's for sure, and that is that the martial techniques of the time had reached a great height. Therefore, excavating the Ancient Era's artifacts, getting hold of and studying the martial techniques of that time are all very important."

Fang Xingjian had not expected that the Miracle World would have another era so far back.

He also got a little interested in finding out what had happened to the Ancient Era.

Therefore, he nodded and said, "Then I'll have to take a look at it."

Therefore, after the two of them finished up the Lightning Fish, they headed for the Sword Tower. Both of them had abilities surpassing that of humans and were able to travel extremely quickly. They were like a gust of wind, appearing before the entrance to the Sword Tower in the blink of an eye.

Fang Xingjian was then brought by James deep into the Sword Tower, to a place where they were surrounded by bookshelves densely packed together. Countless staff were surrounding a piece of metal slab that was as tall as a person, moving about busily.

It was a piece of crimson red metal slab just like burning flames. From afar, one could tell that there were many writings and diagrams on it.

Groups of staff members continued to search for information and test for data around the metal slab.

Hoppes' disciple, Leon, the burly looking man who looked like a lion, was standing in the middle, giving out instructions.

"It's not the script from the previous dynasty."

"What about the minority ethnic groups? Have they been checked?"

"It isn't that either. Nor is it the northern area's language. It's different from the Sand Country's as well."

"There's no change to its height and width, but its temperature keeps fluctuating. It reaches 120 degree celsius at most and 30 degree celsius at least."

"Based on our study of the diagrams for now, it's probably describing a set of Killing sword technique."

"We've compared it to the size of an ordinary man's finger. The words and diagrams ought to have been inscribed by a person with bare fingers."

Upon James' arrival, everyone lowered their heads in greeting before they continued with their work. Everyone seemed extremely excited, just like cats who had smelled the scent of fish.

This was in fact how it was. Compared to endlessly exploring synthesis combinations or extracting cultivation methods from already known sword techniques, a sword technique from the Ancient Era was more exciting.

James walked up to the front row, looked at the metal slab which was filled with densely packed words and asked, "How's the progress?"

"We haven't confirmed the source of the script, but we currently suspect that it might be related to Westerners. We might need to invite a few Westerner masters to help support our research." Leon threw a glance at Fang Xingjian. The other time, he was the one examining Fang Xingjian's Nurturing sword technique, but right now, he was the one reporting the progress of his own work. He continued, "However, Team Leader Hoppes still has no intention of getting involved in this research for now. Therefore, we have no funds for this research yet."

To continue the research, to enlist the help of other masters… There were many areas which required financing.

James nodded and looked at Fang Xingjian, only to discover that the latter's eyes were wide-open and staring at the Ancient Era's sword technique. Fang Xingjian's eyes were filled with surprise and curiosity.

James secretly nodded to himself, thinking that he could let Fang Xingjian lead this project.

However, just as he was about to speak, a laughter rang out. A strange man with upward slanting brows and bright eyes, white-colored hair, and who seemed both like an old man and a young man walked in. When he appeared, everyone present started to feel nervous.

"Senior James, long time no see."

"What senior? Your reputation as a Sword Saint in Eastern Sand Region is more well-known than mine." James smiled and introduced the man to Fang Xingjian, "Xingjian, this is our academy's new sword arts master. He's a Sword Saint from the Eastern Sand Region and a grandmaster in sword arts. You'll have to learn from him."

Sasa shook his head and said, "Before senior, how would I dare to mention anything about being a grandmaster." He then turned to look at the Ancient Era's sword tehcnique, a hint of a scorching glow flashed in his eyes. "I have some hints regarding this sword technique. I've once discovered a similar piece of metal slab in Eastern Sand Region. I'd like to head this project."

A hint of hesitation flashed in James' eyes and he looked at Fang Xingjian.

From the start, Fang Xingjian had not paid any attention to their conversation. All his attention had been captured by the piece of metal slab right in front of his eyes.

It was because he realized that he could understand the script written on it. In his world, this script was known as Chinese characters.

'The last words written by Captain Lin Ling of the special forces of Xin Country's titular organization…'

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Chapter 308 Snatch

'Xin Country… Could it be the Xin Country on Earth?'

Xin Country was Fang Xingjian's home country back on Earth.

'But does Xin Country have a titular organization?

'Moreover, these are things from the Ancient Era… Why would there be writings using the Xin Country's language?'

Looking at the red-colored metal slab, the thoughts in Fang Xingjian's mind became somewhat chaotic. He could no longer hear the discussions in the surroundings, and he continued to read on.

The writing on the metal slab was very messy, and the person who had written this was clearly in a hurry and very nervous. He must have had written it down in a very agitated state.

"The person who has seen this dragon's scale, remember, don't ever borrow the powers of the demonic gods. Don't ever borrow the powers of the demonic gods.

"The only one who can defeat the demonic gods are only the demon gods themselves. Remember! Don't ever let them into our world!

"Remember the sword technique below. It shall be… the key!"

The few words before 'the key' was struck off, making it hard for Fang Xingjian to read what was written there.

The note had started with just a few simple lines, but what was written thereafter was a set of sword technique.

Fang Xingjian did not look at the sword technique, but just read the few lines at the very beginning repeatedly.

'Demonic gods… Do they have any relation to evil gods?' He suddenly recalled what his mother had told him through the Second Prince, 'Don't ever cultivate magic prints. Don't accept the evil gods' powers… Are there any relations between the two?'

Although he could understand the words written on the slab, the message it held was very thought-provoking. It was as if a single puzzle had turned into many more puzzles.

Letting out a sigh, Fang Xingjian knew that with the hints he currently had, it was impossible for him to understand all the causes and effects. He could only lower his head and continue to read the contents of the sword technique.

The name of this technique was called Heaven's Volition Sword Technique. However, rather than calling it a sword technique, it was more like a sword intent. There were no concrete sword moves, but the user would nurture a survival of the fittest sword intent within it.

According to what was written on it, this metal slab was referred to as a dragon's scale.

The introduction to the sword technique did not mention how to nurture this sword intent either. It only described how to unlock the encrypted Waves on the 'dragon's scale', which would then allow one to absorb the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent. There was only one Heaven's Volition Sword Intent, and it could only be cultivated by a single person.

Right now, Fang Xingjian had the Zenith Light Sword Formation for long range attacks, the Ether Sword Ripples for close combat, Terra Ingurgitation when fighting with power, and Boundaries Negation when fighting with speed. He even had a set of Prodigious Demolition Sword which he had yet to master. In terms of battle prowess, he was not lacking in sword techniques he could cultivate.

However, it seemed as if the hidden sword technique in this piece of 'dragon's scale' seemed to hide a great secret, piquing his interest. He really wanted to learn this.

However, he was not the only person who was interested in this Ancient Era's artifact. Just as Fang Xingjian was reading the dragon's scale, Sasa, who had come from the Eastern Sand Region and had the reputation of a Sword Saint, was also in discussion with the Head of Department, James.

Sasa looked at the dragon's scale with a blazingly intense gaze. The reason he was interested in this thing was because he had once read information related to it.

Located on the extreme east of the Empire, the Eastern Sand Region was neighbors to the Sand Country, which was also in the east. The Eastern Sand Region had been often harassed by the Sand Country over the years, and it was a region plagued with war. There were endless conflicts of various degrees, and the Knights there had to go to war often.

As a level 29 Conferred Knight, Sasa was often in the forefront of battles. He would either be fighting to impede the Sand Country's experts while they did the same, or secretly targeting some of their geniuses.

Then in one surprise attack, he had unintentionally come across a secret manual of the Sand Country. He was not interested in the martial techniques recorded in the secret manual itself. However, at the back of the manual, there were records of something known as dragon's scale.

The author of the secret manual had described the dragon's scale as such:

"In the Ancient Era, colossal dragons filled the air, and a Dragon King soared into the air, trying in vain to devour the sun and become a god.

"In order to protect the world, the sovereign of all gods killed the gigantic dragon and used the Dragon King's scale to record his martial arts intent.

"The dragon's scale was split into many pieces, and the martial arts intent recorded in them held a great secret which could make one unrivalled.

"Legend has it that the Heavenly Sovereign of the Blood Sea, the founder of the Sand Country, had managed to breakthrough to attain the Divine level and thus made great achievements after getting his hands on a piece of the dragon's scale."

Sasa had originally thought the contents written in the secret manual were just one of the Sand Country's legends and a fantasy of a weak cultivator. However, right now, the metal slab that was placed before him was exactly like the dragon's scale described in the secret manual.

"Its color was like blood, and it would fluctuate between cold and hot. The divine inscriptions were left behind as records of its intent."

Sword Arts Department looked at James and said, "Head of Department, this item should be made from the armors and scales of ferocious beasts after they had been killed by powerful experts in the Ancient Era. It was used as paper to record the sword technique.

"I've analyzed a similar artifact back in the Eastern Sand Region. Please let me handle the analysis of this as well."

As he spoke, one of his hands stroke the dragon's scale gently as he scanned its structure with his Heaven's Perception, as if it was an electronic scanner. When he saw the existence of things which seemed similar to bone cells, he was even more sure what this was.

'Dragon's scale… This really is a dragon's scale. To think that this thing really does exist. I've always thought that it was a myth fabricated by those barbarians in the Sand Country.

'Heaven is really on my side. With this, I'll have greater confidence when I strive to attain Divine level.'

Hearing Sasa's request, Head of Department did not have much objection. It was a request made by an expert who was at the pinnacle of level 29, and there was no way James would not take it seriously. Moreover, if they were to be judged based on their cultivation level, Sasa would have a higher chance of finding out the profoundness behind the Ancient Era's artifact than Fang Xingjian.

Therefore, James gave it some thought before nodding. He then turned to Fang Xingjian and said, "Xingjian, this project can be handed to Sasa." With that, he smiled, "You can also join Sasa in this project and gain some experience from it."

To be honest, the reason James suggested this out of goodwill.

He was too old and did not have many years left to live. In comparison, Sasa, a well-known swordmaster in the southeast who had the reputation of Sword Saint, was not only a level 29 Conferred Knight but also a top notch existence amongst level 29 Conferred Knights.

There were, of course, differences between level 29 experts. The different specialties they had, the number of techniques they had synthesized, the type of jobs they held, and their attributes, could all create a huge gap between strong experts who were all at level 29.

People like the First Prince who were about to attain Divine level would naturally be one of the strongest. They, as well as those who were at level 29 and were ceaselessly trying to attain Divine level, would be classified as the first tier.

People with similar talents to the Second Prince and the Governors of the eight major regions, who had a tremendous amount of resources but had yet to find the path for them to take in order to attain the Divine level, were slightly weaker and would belong to the second tier.

Below them would be various senior level 29 experts who belonged to the third tier.

Further down were the young level 29 Conferred Knights in the Regional Academies. They belonged to the fourth tier.

Sasa, as a top notch character amongst senior level 29 experts, was a typical third tier member. He could be moved up to the second tier at any time and had the chance of standing alongside experts who were at the Governors' level.

Most importantly, James was already old, while Sasa was still young. By introducing Fang Xingjian to Sasa, James was hoping that they could form a good relationship, and Fang Xingjian would then be able to receive Sasa's support and help.

However, what he did not know was that Fang Xingjian was also very, very interested in the dragon's scale.

Additionally, Fang Xingjian had the confidence of absorbing the sword intent in it before Sasa could make anything out of it. Therefore, he did not object to James' proposal.

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Chapter 309 Dispute

Competition was intense between Knights.

From Knight apprentice, to Knight, and then to Conferred Knight, everyone had climbed to their respective position amidst strong competition, fighting for resources, fighting for rankings, fighting for status… They were all very used to various forms of competitions.

Of course, it was the same for the level 29 southeastern Sword Saint, Sasa.

The legendary dragon's scale contained an unrivaled profoundness and it was no ordinary research object. Sasa was not going to let other people get involved. Right from the start, he had planned on studying the dragon's scale by himself.

Therefore, Sasa rejected outright, "There's no need for that. I'll be fine studying this ancient artifact by myself."

James said, "How can we let that happen? This is the first project you're taking after coming to our Great Western Region. How can we not show our great support? If others were to hear of this, they would think that the Great Western Region Regional Academy was jealous of those with abilities."

"It's really fine," Sasa rejected once again. "Studying Ancient Era's artifacts primarily needs historical records and interpretations of the Ancient Era's culture. It's useless to have numbers. I alone will be sufficient."

James seemed to feel that something was off since he was being rejected so persistently. He threw a glance at the dragon's scale and asked, "Are you sure that you're fine by yourself? Won't you need a few assistants to help you with the research?"

"Mmm, you can give me a few assistants." Sasa did not wish to be too insistent on rejecting either. However, he still mentioned, "But I hope that this ancient artifact can be placed at my residence to have it under strict protection for now. After all, this is an important discovery and any damage inflicted to it would be very costly."

James was just about to agree, but there was no way that Fang Xingjian could let Sasa take the dragon's scale away with him just like that. If that were to happen, how was he going to absorb the sword intent it held?

Therefore, Fang Xingjian said, "The Sword Tower is very safe and all the researchers here are professionals. I don't think there's a need to move it."

Hearing Fang Xingjian's words, Sasa frowned. Although he would explain things patiently to James, there was no need for him to do the same for a young lad. He merely reprimanded him as senior, "I've been studying ancient artifacts for many years in the Eastern Sand Region. Do you think you'd know more about this area than myself?

"Many of these artifacts from the Ancient Era have been preserved by ether particles and any slight carelessness might cause them to crumble. There's too many people here in Sword Tower and mistakes are inevitable. Of course, it would be safer for me to take charge of it."

With Fang Xingjian's character, there was no way that he would pay the reprimand any heed. He rebutted, "Sword Tower also has dormitories. Won't it be fine if you stay here? The facilities, records, and staff are more complete here. You can't possibly want all of them to follow you to your place?"

All the assistants and students in the area were stunned to see Fang Xingjian strongly opposing the Sword Saint. Even Hoppes' student, Leon, gulped. His gaze when looking at Fang Xingjian held a hint of admiration.

To think that he would dare to go against a level 29 Conferred Knight! Leon did not know if Fang Xingjian was courageous or if he was simply brainless.

Sasa's aura suddenly changed and he glared at Fang Xingjian before coldly replying, "Are you the one in charge of this project or am I?" He turned to ask James, "Head of Department, in Great Western Region, is it the students who tells the teachers how to research and cultivate?"

"Eh, both of you, calm down." He turned to Xingjian and sent him a message through his Reduced Force Field, "Xingjian, what's wrong? Why are you going up against Sasa?"

Fang Xingjian spoke out loud, "I'd also like to study this piece of ancient artifact. Moreover, I feel that this Ancient Era's artifact would be safer if left in the Sword Tower."

Hearing that Fang Xingjian was also interested in studying the dragon's scale, Sasa's eyes opened wide, as if killing intent was gathering in them.

How could he allow other people to get hold of the secret of the dragon's scale? Forget about the fact that Fang Xingjian was an ingenious student. Even if his parents or siblings were to come, he wouldn't let them get involved either.

This was as if Fang Xingjian was trying to snatch a piece of meat straight from Sasa's mouth. How could he take this lying down? Moreover, after seeing how persistent Fang Xingjian was, Sasa could not help but suspect that Fang Xingjian also knew of the secret behind the dragon's scale. Could it be that Fang Xingjian knew more about it than him?

The corners of his lips curled out and he suddenly changed his tone, "Xingjian, what you said makes sense as well. How about this. You can study it together with me. We can leave the ancient artifact in Sword Tower as well. I'm quite knowledgeable with regard to the Ancient Era and if you're interested, I can teach you more about it."

Sasa was merely retreating for the sake of advancing. When Fang Xingjian became his subordinate, he would just send him off to check the materials or even to do some cleaning up so as not to let him get close to the dragon's scale. He could even think of ways to get more information out of Fang Xingjian, which could allow him to gain more knowledge more about the dragon's scale.

James nodded, seemingly pleased to see Fang Xingjian and Sasa forging a good relationship. However, Fang Xingjian was already on his guard against Sasa, not wanting to let Sasa know that he could read the inscribed characters, nor of the matter concerning the absorption of the sword intent.

Therefore, he blatantly rejected, "There's no need for that. We should just conduct our studies respectively."

Sasa's gaze froze. The more Fang Xingjian acted like this, the more he felt that something was wrong with Fang Xingjian. He tried to persuade him, "Xingjian, you haven't done any research on the things from the Ancient Era yet, right? The culture from that era was very different from what we have now. If there's no one to guide you along, you'll probably have to waste a lot of time."

Fang Xingjian took one step back, shook his head and said, "I think it's better for me to conduct the study alone." He looked toward Head of Department James and said, "I hope that I alone can be in-charge of this piece of ancient artifact."

This implied that he was trying to get Sasa out of the picture. Everyone present looked at Fang Xingjian as if he was a lunatic. To think that a Conferred Knight who had just completed his second transition would dare to kick away level 29 Conferred Knight…

What astonished them even more was how James had reacted. Rather than rejecting the proposal outright, he frowned and seemed to be deep in thought.

Fury boiled in Sasa's heart. He looked at James and said, "Head of Department…"

"Alright, alright, stop fighting…" James felt troubled. One of them was a level 29 character important to the academy, while the other one was a great genius with an unbelievably bright future before him. He did not wish to put either side down.

Of course, he was more inclined toward Fang Xingjian. However, if he were to put Sasa down, what would the people from the other academies think of this?

Just then, Fang Xingjian said, "Let me handle this project. I'll tell you the secrets to the first three levels of the Pantheon Monument to you in one go."

James' eyes lit up immediately, asking, "Really?"

Furious, Sasa said, "Head of Department, how can you turn this into an exchange of interests? And Fang Xingjian, if you want to announce it, then do it for free. To actually use this to threaten the academy… Do you still have any morals?"

Fang Xingjian continued, "I'll release it to you tonight."

James looked at Sasa and shook his head, saying, "The mysteries of the Pantheon Monument are extremely important. However, the academy is not the military and we'll not force students to reveal what they have comprehended. If everything has to be freely announced, it would be collective display of violence.

"Therefore, we'll only make deals with students to get the information of their comprehension.

"And Fang Xingjian doesn't need money. He is only promising to use the mysteries in exchange for our support. I think this is very reasonable. Once I've fully analyzed all seven levels of mysteries in the Pantheon Monument, I will also include them in the academy's library, which will be beneficial to the overall growth of the academy."

With James talking from a standing point that made it for the good of academy, Sasa could not find any words to counter. And with so many students and teachers around them, even if he were to say anything, he could not possibly do so in front of them.

James tried to mediate the situation, "However, Sasa, you're the professional in the area of Ancient Era's artifacts and we won't completely bar you from studying it. Why don't you and Fang Xingjian take turns to have contact with the artifact each day? Each of you will handle your own research. What do you think?"

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Chapter 310 Analyzing

Sasa gave it some thought and did not think too much about it. He felt that his cultivation was too far stronger than Fang Xingjian's, so it would not possible for Fang Xingjian to be able to solve the secrets of the dragon's scale before he did.

Therefore, he nodded and said to Fang Xingjian, "Young man, you're far too arrogant. An artifact from the Ancient Era isn't as simple as you think. Without the guidance of a teacher, you won't be able to find out anything."

"This is none of your concern." How could Fang Xingjian possibly show Sasa any respect? He just looked at the dragon's scale before him and said, "Then shall I be the one to start with it today?"

Of course, it was impossible that Sasa would not be able to even wait for just this one day. Sasa let out a faint smile and said, "I wish you good luck." With that, he left.

All the remaining assistants, as well as Leon, were all at a loss, and they looked at Fang Xingjian with strange gazes.

For Fang Xingjian to compete with a level 29 Conferred Knight… Although it was not a competition of their battle prowess, it still made him appear too arrogant. This was the case even despite Fang Xingjian holding the records of solving all seven levels mysteries of the Pantheon Monument and clearing the Killing Techniques Palace within a day.

However, these two records were more dependent on one's talent. Understanding an Ancient Era's artifact, on the other hand, required power and accumulation of experience.

Just based on the fact that Sasa's ether synchronization rate was at 100% would mean his ability to receive information and investigate ancient artifacts was countless times stronger than that of Fang Xingjian.

So, no one present thought well of Fang Xingjian.

Even James, who was very familiar with Fang Xingjian's talent, did not think well of him. This was because something like one's capability in understanding the secrets of ancient artifacts was not very relevant to one's talent. Instead, it required the perusing of materials and records in order to decipher words and images. Additionally, it also required the use of Heaven's Perception to sense the information contained in the artifacts.

This type of research relied on one's accumulated experience and ether synchronization rate. These were two areas in which Fang Xingjian was at an overwhelming disadvantage.

Till now, James still could not understand why Fang Xingjian was so persistent with this Ancient Era's artifact.

He shook his head and asked, "Why did you have to go all the way for this?"

Fang Xingjian said, "I'm sorry. I have my own reasons for this."

Even though Fang Xingjian knew his own reason, most of the other people would not see it this way. Before the afternoon was over, news of Fang Xingjian challenging Sasa had already spread through the entire academy.

In the room with the Ancient Era's artifact, groups of staff from the Sword Tower had come to observe Fang Xingjian, as if they wanted to find out why Fang Xingjian was so confident.

Fang Xingjian ignored the gazes of the surrounding people and calmly read the characters inscribed on the dragon's scale.

To the others, Fang Xingjian appeared to be looking at the artifact in a daze.

"Why isn't Fang Xingjian checking reference materials?"

"Could it be that he recognizes the words on it?"

"How can that be possible? We've been trying to look for it for close to five days but have yet to find out what language they are in. How can he possibly recognize them?"

"He can't possibly be in a daze, right?"

"This lad is really arrogant. He is 17 years old and has just completed the second transition for over a month. To think that he would dare to challenge the Sword Saint."

"It's good for youngsters to go through some hardship. Otherwise, others would feel that the geniuses in our Great Western Region are unbelievably arrogant."

Although Fang Xingjian's records of solving the mysteries of the Pantheon Monument and clearing the Killing Techniques Palace had attracted plenty of attention, there were people who were jealous of his results and the 50,000 gold which the Head of Department had given to him.

When it came down to it, both Conferred Knights and Knights had to fight for resources since there was a limit on them. Fang Xingjian had access to the Sacred Land with one hundred times the density, ate a tremendous amount of ferocious beasts daily, had plenty of cultivation resources, and had even taken 50,000 gold from the Sword Arts Department. Of course, this would mean that the resources others had access to would be lower.

Despite the fact that the resources might not be theirs even if Fang Xingjian had not taken them, they knew that, at least for now, the resources had all been snatched away by Fang Xingjian.

"Alright, alright. What are you guys looking at? Go back and do your work!" Leon let out a loud bellow like a lion and chased off the spectators. However, he stepped next to Fang Xingjian and said, "Hehe, some people are just jealous. Even if they can't have something, they don't want others to get it.

"Why don't they think about it a little more? Even if you aren't around how high up in the ranking can they get in the academy?"

With that, Leon looked at the dragon's scale curiously and asked, "Do you have any problems studying it like this? Do you need me to get you some reference materials?"

Fang Xingjian was just about to shake his head, but he suddenly felt that this would attract too much attention. So, he said, "Can I trouble you to help get me some research materials about the Ancient Era?"

Leon said forthrightly, "Hehe, you can leave this to me."

Despite the fact that Leon had chased away the crowd several times, there were still batches of people who came over to surround Fang Xingjian again. However, Fang Xingjian remained unfazed. That night, he had finished reading the sword technique on the dragon's scale and was planning to start absorbing the sword intent within it.

He placed one of his palms on the dragon's scale, sensing its fluctuating temperatures. The changes to the temperature was because of the fluctuating frequency of the dragon's scale. The incessant change caused its temperature to change together with the frequency changes.

Fluctuating wave frequencies held different information. They were like the modern society's electronic signals. Right now, what Fang Xingjian had to do was decipher these encrypted information and receive the recognition of the dragon's scale. Only by doing this would he then be able to absorb the sword intent within.

Fang Xingjian placed his hand on the dragon's scale, continuously using his Heaven's Perception to read the information within. He then slowly tried to decipher the secrets within.

Soon, he felt as if his consciousness was sinking into a river with countless whirlpools and ripples. Only by tracking down the trails of the ripples clearly would he then be able to pierce through their weaknesses and remain intact as he swam in the river.

If he were to collide against the ripples and create new ripples, his consciousness would get flung out, and he would have to start all over again.

This was the first time Fang Xingjian had come across such encrypted means using ether technology. Therefore, he failed many times before he gradually got into the depths of the dragon's scale.

Consecutive days passed by. Fang Xingjian and Sasa took turns to have contact with the dragon's scale, and the people who came to observe Fang Xingjian got increasingly fewer. However, the people, who saw Fang Xingjian staring frequently at the artifact in a daze, thought even worse of Fang Xingjian's eventual result.

In the Sword Arts Department's Killing Techniques Palace, Hoult was practicing the Thunderbolt Sword Technique one move at a time. Norman, who had previously been by his side, suddenly dashed in excitedly, saying, "Hoult, do you know? Fang Xingjian got into trouble again."

Hoult's brows twitched as he asked, "What did he do?"

Norman exultantly described the whole matter to Hoult and then said with a smile, "I treated a senior from the Sword Tower to a meal and heard from him that Fang Xingjian has been staring at that metal slab in a daze. He's only 17 and has never studied Ancient Era's artifacts before. He must be a fool."

Hoult stopped practicing the Thunderbolt Sword Technique. Although there was no expression on his face, he felt slightly happier now.

He spoke calmly, "It's nothing strange for a 17 year old Conferred Knight, who has only completed the transition for over a month, to lose to the Sword Saint. Even if he were to lose, he's still an unrivalled genius. I only pity him for wasting his time on such meaningless things."

However, Hoult paused slightly before saying, "Norman, go try to find out more news about him. It's quite interesting."

Thinking of how Fang Xingjian would suffer a crushing defeat and be taught a lesson by the Sword Saint, Hoult still felt quite happy although he was unwilling to show it on his face. This was what it meant to take pleasure in the misfortune of others. It was human nature, and there was no exception even for Hoult.

He thought to himself, 'Talent isn't everything. For example, when researching a sword technique from the Ancient Era, talent isn't something that's absolutely necessary.'

Norman and Hoult had gotten very close to each other, so Norman understood what Hoult was thinking. He even added, "I've got it. I'll go ask around for more updates."

Hoult watched as Norman left excitedly and sighed, "The reason this person hasn't made any progress after so many years is because he isn't focused on his martial arts." However, the slight smile on Hoult's face betrayed his facade.

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Chapter 311 Crowding Around To Watch

"Xingjian, you're here again?"

"Mmm."

"How's your progress? Have you figured out what language those Ancient Era's writings are in?"

"Mmm, I'm about there."

"I've heard that Sword Saint Sasa has already deciphered the first two hundred words. Xingjian, you must work hard too."

"Mmm."

As he watched Fang Xingjian leave with an indifferent look, the student who had approached Fang Xingjian thought to himself, 'He's just putting up an act.'

Fang Xingjian continued to head for the room where the dragon's scale was located. On the way, quite a number of people greeted him and asked him about his progress with the Ancient Era's artifact. When he came across them, Fang Xingjian would just give a casual reply.

When Leon walked over, he could not hold it in and stared at the students as they walked past. He then patted Xingjian's shoulder and said, "Don't think too much about it. These people are just extremely jealous of a 17 year old genius… a 17 year old Conferred Knight. They're just waiting to see you make a fool of yourself."

"It's fine."

Leon then continued to say, "Sasa's side has basically verified that the words on the artifact don't belong to any known languages. He has invited a language specialist to decipher the words together with him. I heard that it's a type of hieroglyphic, and their progress is very fast."

"Is that so?" Fang Xingjian replied.

Leon continued, "Aren't you anxious? The other party is a well-known sword master from the southeast and an expert with a reputation as a Sword Saint."

"Then it must be really cheap to be a Sword Saint in the Eastern Sand Region."

Leon smiled bitterly and said, "You sure are open-minded."

As the two of them conversed, they gradually arrived at the room where the dragon's scale was located. Sasa and a few other old men were flipping through materials and debating on the meaning of each character as over ten people surrounded them and watched.

"This one should be referring to sword intent."

"It's saying that there's sword intent inside?"

"But is that really possible? A sword intent that has existed since 2,000 years ago?"

"Even if there was, it should be gone by now?"

As the few of them debated, Fang Xingjian pushed his way through the crowd and walked up to the dragon's scale. "It's time. It's my turn today."

Sasa threw Fang Xingjian an annoyed look. However, they had already transferred a copy of the words on the dragon's scale onto a piece of paper. Even if they were not in front of the dragon's scale, it wouldn't affect their progress in deciphering the words on it.

"Alright, let's make a move."

Sasa led the other professionals and left. Some people who were just here to spectate left as well, but there were still some who stayed behind, wanting to check out how Fang Xingjian was deciphering the words.

However, Fang Xingjian said, "I'm sure everyone has watched enough? I don't wish to be disturbed today. Please leave." It was only then that the group of people left helplessly, leaving Fang Xingjian alone once as he started to analyze the waves again.

Then as his consciousness got continuously close to the source of the waves on the dragon's scale, he could feel the throbbing of an extremely strong and sharp aura, as if it was awakening from thousands or tens of thousands years of deep sleep.

Fang Xingjian could feel that as he continued to decipher the waves of the dragon's scale through the words, he was getting closer and closer to the sword intent which was contained within. He would be able to truly get in touch with the sword intent in perhaps just a few more days.

In another office, Hoppes, the head of the sword arts team and the head of the Sword Tower, was checking through the research reports which had been done during this period of time. He was ensuring that there were no problems as to the general direction and focus of all the projects, as well as verify the direction they would need to take for the next few months.

Next to him, Leon was drinking a cup of coffee and saying, "Teacher, between Fang Xingjian and Sasa, who do you think will win?"

"Those two… What do you guys think?" Hoppes did not even raise his head and decided to test his students.

Next to him, a silver-haired young man in his twenties said sourly, "It's true that Fang Xingjian is talented, but when it comes down to studying ancient artifacts, it depends on one's experience and not talent. Sasa has already started to decipher the words, while Fang Xingjian… he hasn't even really flipped through any materials. I think he'll definitely lose."

Leon smiled and said, "Hehe, Younger Martial Brother, you're jealous."

"What's there to be jealous of? I'm just stating the truth. Leon, do you think that he has a chance to win against Sasa?"

Leon shook his head and said, "To win against Sasa… It's too difficult. Teacher, what do you think?"

Hoppes replied calmly, "Under normal circumstances, no matter what Fang Xingjian does, there's no way that he would be able to win Sasa. But the problem is, do you guys think that Fang Xingjian is an idiot?"

"Of course not," Leon replied, "If a person who can clear all the sword techniques in the Killing Techniques Palace within a day is an idiot, then won't we all be pigs?"

"Since Fang Xingjian isn't an idiot and given that he's the one who initiated this competition, he would naturally be confident. Therefore, even I can't tell who will end up winning."

The younger Martial Brother frowned and said, "Couldn't it be because Fang Xingjian is too arrogant?"

Hoppes said calmly, "Never think of others as too much of a fool. This is especially so in battles. Never hope to bet your chances of winning on other people's failures."

Another day passed by, and Sasa let out a big yawn. Although most Conferred Knights no longer needed sleep, with the way he had been spending the past few days, consecutively expending a tremendous amount of brainpower to decipher the words… he still could feel the fatigue getting to him.

After all, deciphering words was like playing a guessing game by combining different possible variations together and then removing the wrong possibilities.

It was also thanks to the fact that an existence like Sasa was not like that of a human anymore. His strong powers at being level 29 allowed his brain to be like some super calculator, capable of storing countless pieces of information in his brain and then comparing and guessing different combination possibilities.

Thinking of how tired he had been for the past few days, Sasa suddenly laughed at himself. He felt he was being too careful. His opponent was only a young lad who had just completed his second transition for over a month. Was there a need for him to fight so hard?

'But this is good as well. These geniuses need to be put down a little. Otherwise, they will really think that their talents are unrivalled and that they don't give a hoot about their seniors.'

Thinking of the smooth progress they had made during the past few days in deciphering the artifact, Sasa was able to remain comfortable and calm despite being in a tense situation.

As Sasa walked toward the room where the dragon's scale was located, there was a continuous stream of countless people greeting him.

"Lord Sword Saint, you're here again?"

"Good morning, Lord Sword Saint."

Sasa smiled as he greeted them. That bright and warm smile quickly drew close the distance he had with others, giving them the feeling as though he was easy to get along with.

This was the image which Sasa had always been maintaining, of him being graceful yet warm like spring, as if he was a well-educated great scholar. Upon one look, he would give off the feeling that he was a person of great virtue.

However, as he got closer to the room with the dragon's scale, he suddenly frowned.

An assistant walked up to him and greeted, "Good morning, Lord Sasa. Is your research going smoothly?"

Sasa abruptly turned in his direction with an extremely sharp and fierce gaze, causing that assistant to take a few steps back uncontrollably. The assistant felt as if his body had been pierced, and he started to tremble.

However, Sasa did not have the time to be bothered with that. He gazed into the room, glaring at the dragon's scale and Fang Xingjian. Sasa could sense that there was a gush of sword intent, or rather, information flow, slowly emerging from the dragon's scale and having an exchange with Fang Xingjian.

'How could this be?

'This youngster… has already reached this stage?'

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Chapter 312 Materials

Sasa had thought that their deciphering progress rate was very fast and felt that everything was going smoothly. However, right now, looking at the scene of Fang Xingjian forming a connection with the dragon's scale, Sasa felt as if a basin of cold water had just been pour over his head, and he felt the chills go all the way to his heart.

He had only deduced that the dragon's scale hid a sword intent. However, the other party seemed to have already managed to connect to that very sword intent.

Sasa could only imagine how much honor and glory Fang Xingjian would earn if he were to defeat Sasa in deciphering the Ancient Era's artefact.

However, Sasa could also imagine how he, after failing and then becoming a stepping stone for Fang Xingjian, would be subjected to contempt and ridicule.

This was not something which only concerned his reputation. At the very least, the support that the Great Western Region Regional Academy provided to him would be reduced greatly. Moreover, the dragon's scale held an unrivaled secret. How could Sasa possibly allow others to get to it? This was the one thing which Sasa found the most intolerable.

It was at this moment that he thought of something which he had never considered all this while. If he were to lose to Fang Xingjian, how would everything turn out?

'The secret of the dragon's scale… Even if it isn't really unrivalled, it had let the Heavenly Sovereign of the Blood Sea attain a breakthrough to the Divine level. I must definitely not let Fang Xingjian snatch it away.'

Sasa secretly came to this decision after much thought, and his gaze suddenly sharpened.

'It can't go one like this…'

In an instant, Sasa regained to his usual composure as though nothing had happened. He smiled and walked up next to Fang Xingjian, then he said, "Your progress seems to be good? Have you already solved the secret to the artifact?"

"Not yet." Fang Xingjian frowned, feeling a little helpless as he stopped the interaction between himself and the sword intent.

Although he had already come into contact with the sword intent, he realized that this sword intent, or rather, the information remnant left behind by someone, was like the information remnant in the level 29 Superior Divine Armor, Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor. It already had a simple consciousness of its own.

Fang Xingjian wanted to absorb this sword intent based on the method recorded on the dragon's scale, but it had ignored him completely and was unwilling to be absorbed by him.

He had tried to communicate with it for an entire night, and just as he was making a slight progress, Sasa had interrupted. Then with Sasa's arrival, that sword intent shrunk back completely into the dragon's scale, and Fang Xingjian could no longer sense its presence any more.

Annoyed with Sasa's interruption, Fang Xingjian stood up and headed out the door, totally ignoring Sasa. During this period, other than studying the dragon's scale, Fang Xingjian also needed to continue his sword arts cultivation.

However, Sasa called out to him and said warmly, "Xingjian, why don't we have a discussion about it. What you've thought of may not be very complete. I've specially invited a few specialists in ancient culture over from the Eastern Sand Region… Do you want to have an exchange of opinions with us?"

Fang Xingjian turned and threw him a glance. Despite Fang Xingjian's arrogant gaze making Sasa extremely pissed, Sasa continued to maintain his smile.

However, Fang Xingjian merely said with indifference, "Not interested." With that, he turned to leave.

"This lad…" Sasa's cheek twitched. As a well-known swordmaster of the generation in the southeast, when had he ever been treated with such disrespect? Even someone at the level of the Governor would treat Sasa with great respect. Otherwise, they would be called arrogant.

"I can't let this go." Many schemes ran through Sasa's mind. As a level 29 Conferred Knight who had fought his way through many battles, Sasa was never the type of person who would be considered a good guy, based on traditional views. In the battlefield, he had killed many of his enemies through his sly schemes. This was because people who only knew how to fight fiercely head-on would never be able to stay alive to the very end.

'That's right. His Rebirth Sword Technique that was released recently seems to have struck up a huge debate…'

Sasa's eyes narrowed as he walked out of the door. Then he spoke casually to a random assistant, "Sword Tower has a copy of Fang Xingjian's Rebirth Sword Technique, right? Bring it here for me to take a look."

Sasa started to laugh coldly in his heart. 'If this sword technique really is impenetrable, then so be it. However, if I were to find a hint of flaw to it, then don't blame me for being vicious.'

In his opinion, a sword technique which a seventeen year old genius like Fang Xingjian had created would definitely have some flaws to it.

'I can think of other options as well.'

When one reached Sasa's position and received too much of the society's resources, there would be many cards he could use to deal with a Regional Academy's student, even if it were against a great genius.

On his end, Fang Xingjian did not know what was happening and merely continued to work hard in cultivating his sword arts everyday as well as communicating with the sword intent hidden in the dragon's scale.

However, that sword intent was like a wild child who had just opened their eyes to see the world. It would appear and disappear suddenly without any notice, hiding here and there. The moment there were any slight changes, it would hide itself, preventing Fang Xingjian from communicating with it properly, let alone absorbing it.

Fang Xingjian had even tried the assimilation method as inscribed on the dragon's scale, but the sword intent remained unmoving. It just stayed as it was, unwilling to enter Fang Xingjian's body.

This day, Fang Xingjian went to the Sword Tower again but was stopped by a guy hiding in a cloak.

The guy handed him a document and said in a calm voice, "If you wish to settle this, come look for me at the mountain behind the academy at this time tomorrow." With that, the guy left.

Fang Xingjian frowned, opened up the document on the spot and read it.

There were only about five pages to the document, with a majority of it being a namelist and data. However, the content was astonishing.

It recorded the situation of a sword arts school. Three of the school's students practiced a certain sword technique, and within a mere one week, they were all suffering from varying degrees of internal injuries.

Although there was no direct indication that their internal injuries were caused by this particular sword technique, it was too obvious that all of the data in the document was pinning the blame on the sword technique. While looking at this set of data, even Fang Xingjian would think that their internal injuries seemed to be caused by practicing the new sword technique.

As for the name of this sword technique, it was the 'Rebirth Sword Technique'.

Looking at the document in his hands, Fang Xingjian's heart sank.

For a sample, three students were too few. However, considering all three students suffered from internal injuries, the situation was very serious.

'My Rebirth Sword Technique is definitely perfect.

'Why would they suffer from internal injuries?'

Suddenly, Sasa walked over and smiled as he asked, "What's wrong, Xingjian? You're not in a good mood?"

Fang Xingjian threw Sasa a cold glance, tucked the documents into his pockets, and left.

After Fang Xingjian had left, Sasa's bright expression dropped. He looked at Fang Xingjian's back as if he were looking at a dead man.

'You can go ahead and be as arrogant as you want for now.

'I'm looking forward to see how the association will deal with you after knowing about the problem with the Rebirth Sword Technique.'

Thinking of this, the corners of Sasa's lips curled up slightly, and he left in an extremely good mood.

"Lord Sasa? You seem to be in a good mood. Is the deciphering going on smoothly?"

"Haha, it's going on very smoothly. We should be able to decipher all of it very soon."

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Chapter 313 Temptation

Walking up to the dragon's scale, Fang Xingjian let out a breath, as if he was trying to release all his troubles and worries together with this exhale.

Although the document from earlier caused him to feel troubled, it was useless to think about all these right now. The matter of the dragon's scale was more important. It was a competition between him and Sasa, in which each of them taking turns to spend a day with the dragon's scale. If he were to waste this time, it would just be another trouble on top of the existing problem with the document.

Therefore, Fang Xingjian forced himself to ignore the matter with the document and threw his entire consciousness into the dragon's scale.

With the help of his Heaven's Perception, his consciousness drew in closer to the dragon's scale, perhaps because he was affected by the matter concerning the document or maybe he instincts.

The information which appeared in Fang Xingjian's consciousness was not in the Empire's language but in the language which came from Xin Country on Earth. The characters were coming from his body's instincts; they were Chinese characters.

A person's mother tongue tended to be the language their thoughts were in, and right now, Fang Xingjian subconsciously sent over information through Heaven's Perception in the form of Chinese characters.

Then something unexpected happened. Much to Fang Xingjian's surprise, the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent, which had been shunning and unwilling to get close him, was now like a curious kid, slowly reaching out from the dragon's scale. Fang Xingjian could sense waves sweeping past his body, as if the sword intent wanted to communicate with him.

Fang Xingjian hesitated for a moment before transmitting once again, 'You… can understand Chinese?'

Sword intent had no form, but at this moment, Fang Xingjian seemed to have felt the sword intent tremble slightly. An elated message was sent over to him.

'When it boils down to it, sword intent is also the information remnant left behind by cultivators. However, it is unlike the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor, which condensed the cultivator's spirit, will, and sword arts understanding.

'If it's said that the information remnant in the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor is the cultivator's memory and emotions…

'Then the information remnant in this dragon's scale are purely emotions.

'In the long process of waiting, these emotions began to gradually gain some intelligence.

'When it heard Chinese, it's was as though it had a happy reaction.

'Is this because it was born from a cultivator's emotions in the first place and thus… it is moving in accordance to its instincts?

'If that is the case, isn't it similar to animals like kittens and puppies?'

Therefore, from there, Fang Xingjian continued to send an endless string of Chinese words into the dragon's scale. He could sense that the sword intent was gushing out increasingly. It was as if it had started off being in a state where it had just woken up, but the endless stream of Chinese characters had allowed it to become increasingly clear-headed and awake.

Then as the Chinese characters continued to be transmitted, Fang Xingjian could also sense that the sword intent was not as guarded against him as it had been in the past. It was gradually getting closer to him.

At the beginning, the sword intent would run off after a slight contact, but right now, Fang Xingjian could sense the waves of the sword intent hitting against his body, as if it was trying to use its hair or whiskers to get to know him better.

'It's very cautious.

'But it still doesn't really have spiritual intelligence.

'It likes Chinese characters and thus can become more familiar with me. In that case, what else would it like?'

Fang Xingjian's eyes lit up as he suddenly understood that since it was a sword intent, it would naturally be interested in sword theories.

He gave it some thought and then sent the sword intent relevant information about the New Nine-Headed Dragon Sword Technique from his mind.

The sword intent in the dragon's scale seemed to go silent for a moment, but at the next moment, a gush of extreme joy surged forth. It was a tremendous flow of information, but the only thing it contained was happiness.

It was as though countless repetitions of the words 'ravished with joy' had been duplicated and sent over to Fang Xingjian's brain.

The information flow gushed toward Fang Xingjian's brain and consciousness, but the moment it got near, the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor reacted. Domirov's martial will gushed up and moved out like a great sandstorm, clashing against the sword intent's information flow.

However, the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor, which could easily crush low level Conferred Knights, and Domirov's martial will, which could counter suppress Fang Xingjian… Upon encountering the sword intent's information flow, this defense was like a piece of tofu which had clashed against a kitchen knife and was easily cut up into countless pieces, allowing the sword intent's information flow to gush into Fang Xingjian's mind.

'What?!'

With no time to react before the information flow gushed into his mind, Fang Xingjian grabbed onto his head, feeling like his mind was being overloaded. Then he moved backward for over ten steps before he gradually came to a stop.

Fang Xingjian lifted his head to look at the dragon's scale. This was the first time he sensed just how terrifying the sword intent within it was.

'Who was the person who left his sword intent behind?

'The Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor's martial will is already the information remnant of a level 29 expert. Moreover, it was from the corpse of a level 29 expert.

'To think that this sword intent left behind by its owner could slash through the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor's entire defence with just a casual attack using its information flow…

'Then how powerful was person who was able to leave behind a sword intent like this?

'Divine level?

'Or… even stronger?'

Fang Xingjian looked at the dragon's scale right before him, and after thinking it through, the enthusiasm in his gaze grew. What a powerful sword intent… If he were able to get hold of it, if he could gain the power in the sword intent… then how much more power would he be able to gain?

After thinking about that for a moment, Fang Xingjian rubbed his aching head and then once again walked toward the dragon's scale, sending his consciousness to probe the dragon's scale.

The earlier probe had allowed him to understand that the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent loved sword arts a lot. If that was the case, as long as Fang Xingjian were to give it some perks, it would be possible for him to attract it out using sword techniques.

Fang Xingjian's heart throbbed, and he immediately sent out 10% of the content of the Lightless Sword he had just learned.

The sword intent ravished with joy yet again. However, this time around, Fang Xingjian was prepared. Although his head was still aching, he would just take it as training his martial will.

Sensing the feelings of hunger coming from the dragon's scale, Fang Xingjian started to transmit messages over and present the sword intent with an offer.

'Come into my body. If you were to enter my body, I'll give you the latter part of this sword technique.'

Fang Xingjian could sense the sword intent's struggle, hesitation, and craving flowing into him from the dragon's scale.

This sword intent had developed some intelligence, and although it could neither speak nor write, it could allow Fang Xingjian to sense the basic changes in its emotions, similar to what animals like cats and dogs could do.

Fang Xingjian tried to send some more sword techniques over, but they only caused the sword intent to hesitate. So, he was unable to lure it out completely to enter into his body.

Fang Xingjian continued just like that, and toward the end, he sent over the first 2,000 words of the Rebirth Sword Technique to it directly.

'This set of sword technique is something I created by combining 100 sets of Nurturing sword techniques. It's the perfect sword technique amongst all Nurturing sword techniques.'

The simple 2,000 words caused the sword intent to scream out in ecstasy like it had taken drugs. It seemed as though the entire dragon's scale had started trembling.

Fang Xingjian stared at the dragon's scale.

'Do you want this set of sword technique? If you do, then come over to me.

'After looking at this sword technique, you should be able to understand my talent as well. With my sword arts talent, I'll be able to create many sword techniques of this level—no, it should be 'many sword techniques of a higher level'. If you want them, come with me.'

In that instant, the entire dragon's scale started tremoring furiously. The sword intent seemed to be struggling to make a decision. Right now, Fang Xingjian looked like a fresh, tender, and juicy piece of meat which had been placed right before it.

Amidst Fang Xingjian's excited gaze, he could sense that there was something without form yet actually existing in the dragon's scale, slowly emerging bit by bit.

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Chapter 314 Interrupt

Just as the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent in the dragon's scale was throbbing as though it would leap into Fang Xingjian's arms at any time, a cough rang out suddenly behind Fang Xingjian. The Heaven's Volition Sword Intent then shrank back violently and returned into the dragon's scale, disappearing without a trace.

Fury surged up from Fang Xingjian's heart, and he stood up abruptly and looked behind him.

He saw Sasa standing there apologetically, saying, "I'm sorry, Xingjian. I came over seeing that it's about time. Did I disturb you?"

Fang Xingjian's face seemed to be filling with killing intent. Anyone who had the same situation as earlier, in which they were disturbed at the moment when the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent was just about to enter his body and thus resulting in everything going down in failure… would probably be so angry that they would feel like killing someone.

This was especially the case for Fang Xingjian since he had spent so much effort in trying to lure the sword intent out. Moreover, he did not know if he could succeed on the next attempt. This made the killing intent surge in Fang Xingjian's heart even more.

However, Fang Xingjian knew that right now, he was not a match for Sasa, a level 29 Conferred Knight. Therefore, he did not take action against Sasa. Fang Xingjian just threw a cold glance at him and left after taking note of this in his heart.

However, to Sasa, Fang Xingjian's actions were already greatly disrespectful.

'Hmph. Fang Xingjian, from now onward, you won't have much time to fiddle with my dragon's scale any more.'

Thinking of the secrets to the dragon's scale, Sasa could not help but feel a strong craving.

The secret concealed in the dragon's scale could not be said to be invincible, but it was related to striving for the Divine level. With it being such an important item, Sasa was completely bent on getting his hands on it and would definitely not allow others to have it instead.

'I must get my hands on the secret to the dragon's scale before Fang Xingjian does.'

As for whether Sasa would destroy the dragon's scale, kill all the rest of the researchers, or take any other actions, it would all depend on what was the secret he had discovered.

Right now, being faster than Fang Xingjian was not the only thing Sasa needed to do. Considering Fang Xingjian's confidence, in order for Sasa to hog the secret to himself, he had to prevent Fang Xingjian from being able to continue studying the dragon's scale.

Meanwhile, Fang Xingjian was infuriated, and even his footsteps became faster as he dashed out like a sharp sword, leaving behind deeply entrenched sword marks in the ground.

However, with his mental cultivation method circulating, he was basically still clear-headed. Thinking of the document he had gotten his hands on, Fang Xingjian headed toward the agreed location of the meetup.

Fang Xingjian arrived at the mountain path behind the academy like a gush of wind and saw a guy dressed in black robes standing there. It was the person who had given him the document yesterday.

Seeing that Fang Xingjian had arrived, the guy said, "You're here. How is it? After taking a look at this set of data, did you break out in cold sweat? To think that the Nurturing technique which you have spent all your effort in creating has such a big loophole."

Fang Xingjian said coldly, "Who are you? What do you want?"

"I want you to head to Sand Country to help me search for something." The guy let out a cold laugh, "If you don't agree, then this set of data and report will be sent to the Knight Association."

The Knight's handbook was handled by the Knight Association, and if any sword techniques reflected on it were found to have any problems, then naturally it would be left to the Knight Association to find and punish the person responsible.

There had been countless cases in history regarding plagiarizing or counterfeit martial art techniques. Those Conferred Knights responsible did not end up in a good plight.

It was easy to understand if one were to think about it. The Knight Association was in-charge of managing all of the over a hundred thousand Knights and Conferred Knights in the Empire. How much authority did they hold? In order to uphold their dignity, credit, and authority, if they were to discover any cases of counterfeits or plagiarism, the culprits would be dealt with severely.

Firstly, the culprit would be disqualified from being a Knight and would be imposed with a hefty fine. The person's power would also be taken into consideration depending on how serious the case was, and they might be partially crippled to reduce a certain degree of their power. In more serious cases, it would treated as treason.

Of course, even the simplest warning would prevent the Knight from being able to get any more cultivation resources, and the person would not have a future in the Empire.

Any academy or influences would reject having these Knights join them.

Therefore, the threat given by the black robed man was very solemn and very serious.

However, Fang Xingjian let out a cold laugh and said, "There's no way that there's a problem with my Rebirth Sword Technique. There must be other interfering factors that would cause these three students from this school to suffer from internal injuries. Therefore, I won't accept your threat."

Fang Xingjian had the world's best sword talent, so how could he lack confidence in his own sword arts? It was because he understood his sword arts very well. He also understood each and every move to the Rebirth Sword Technique, so he knew it would definitely not have any problems.

The Rebirth Sword Technique was created by combining the essence of 100 sets of Nurturing sword techniques, and which of those 100 sets of sword techniques had not been through repeated polishing?

The problem could only lie with the cultivators but definitely not on the Rebirth Sword Technique.

This was the judgement made from the confidence that Fang Xingjian had toward his own sword techniques as well as his high level of sword arts mastery. It was because of these that he did not panic the moment he received the news nor let it affect him from studying the sword intent. Neither did he end up in a state of confusion and anxiety when the black robed man brought up his request.

With a slight move of Fang Xingjian's hand, a stone sword came out from the surface of the ground and into his hand. Under the effect of the Swordless Path, it had become a level 19 Inferior Divine Weapon.

Fang Xingjian said calmly, "I'm not interested in your threat. The reason I've come is to see who on earth would dare to threaten me.

"I hate people who threaten me the most."

As he spoke, Fang Xingjian moved his body. It was as if a stream of electricity was piercing through the air, and a sword light shot out and stopped at the man's neck.

Fang Xingjian said calmly, "Now, let me see who on earth you are."

The ether sword ripple swept passed the guy's robe, and it instantly tore into many pieces. However, the person revealed was not really a person but a clay figurine.

The clay figurine opened its mouth and laughed softly, saying, "Fang Xingjian, we knew that you're arrogant, imperious, and would resort to violence if things didn't go well. How could I possibly come in person and get into a fix?"

The next moment, the clay figurine let out a cold laugh, "Leave the academy within three days. Head to the Sand Country and wait for my next instruction. Otherwise, you can just wait to be interrogated by the association."

After saying that, the clay figurine immediately disintegrated and turned into fine sand, falling onto the ground.

Fang Xingjian looked at the fine sand on the ground and went into deep thought.

'The Sand Country? Are they thinking of getting my Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor? Are they people from the Sand Country?'

The only people whom Fang Xingjian could think of who would do this seemed to only be people from the Sand Country. They wanted to lure him to the Sand Country and get their hands on the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor. After all, this was a Divine Weapon made from their national hero's corpse.

'Within three days.' Thinking of this, Fang Xingjian turned to leave. Of course, it was impossible for him to head to the Sand Country. It would take him at least a month to travel to there and make it back. How could he possibly waste his time on this?

Moreover, there was no need for him to deal with this alone.

At the Head of Department's Office.

"What? Someone suffered from internal injuries after cultivating your Rebirth Sword Technique? Is it a deterioration of their organs?"

Fang Xingjian passed the data to James, the Head of Department, and said, "It can't be a problem with the sword technique. There must be some other interfering factors.

"But if they were to hand this to the association, and the association were to come and investigate this, it would spell trouble."

"It's going to be more than just trouble." James frowned and said, "Those officials are able to create problems even if there's nothing wrong to begin with. Even if we were to prove that there's no problem with us, the two of us, or even the school would probably suffer from great losses.

"There's no need for you to concern yourself with this matter. I'll get someone to settle this.

"Everything will be easy to deal with if we can make the people from this school shut up."

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Chapter 315 Discuss

Two days later, Fang Xingjian smiled as he looked at the dragon's scale. He could sense an extremely sharp and majestic aura moving around in his body, releasing an extremely curious emotion.

After trying to tempt it for another day, Fang Xingjian handed out half of the Rebirth Sword Technique before he finally got the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent to circulate and move around in his body.

Although the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent was still unwilling to be subdued, this would still count as huge progress.

Fang Xingjian could sense that deep within the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent there was an extremely strong greedy devouring emotion. He was convinced that he just needed to constantly lure the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent with sword techniques in order to successfully subdue it, and finally pick up this set of Heaven's Volition Sword Technique.

Just then, the door was pushed open and the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent acted as if it had gotten a fright, slowly shrinking back. However, this time around, Fang Xingjian could sense that it could not bear to part with the sword techniques in his body. It had not left as readily as it had the first time.

Fang Xingjian smiled and let the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent leave. He turned to see Sword Saint Sasa walking in.

The Sword Saint continued to greet him as usual, "How is it, Xingjian? Is everything going well? We've successfully deciphered 50% of the inscriptions. Hehe, everyone is showing great enthusiasm."

Fang Xingjian shook his head and said without caring for Sasa's words, "Is that so? You guys might find that you've wasted your time. In half a month at most, I'll be able to complete this set of sword technique."

Sasa's eyes narrowed as he looked at Fang Xingjian coldly.

Seeing how confident Fang Xingjian was, Sasa felt anxious. He was bent on getting his hands on the dragon's scale, so how could he possibly tolerate Fang Xingjian beating him to it?

'I must hurry. I must definitely not let the secret of the dragon's scale land in someone else's hands.

'I must stop Fang Xingjian from probing any deeper.'

The other specialists who had been working with Sasa in deciphering the ancient characters walked in, yawning. Most of them were ordinary Knights, while some of them were ordinary people. The consecutive long nights were taking a toll on their bodies. It was impossible for them to feel as refreshed as Sasa, without a trace of fatigue.

Sasa looked at the few of them and asked, "Where are Xelloss and Benjamin? Why aren't they here?"

"They've fallen sick. We've been working through the night for consecutive days. They are both over 60 years old and their bodies can't keep up."

"They'll have to come even if they can't keep up," Sasa coldly replied. "I'll double the salary for this month. All of you can forget about getting any rest. Within half a month… no… within a week, we'll need to complete deciphering all these ancient characters."

Immediately, agonized cries rang out.

One of the specialists said, "Working so many consecutive nights might not be a problem for a Conferred Knight like yourself, but there's no way that we would be able to keep it up like this. It would even affect our efficiency.

"Moreover, you broke it into parts, making it impossible for us to analyze it in relation to the other sections in front and in the back that we're working on. As a result, our progress is slower. You should let us have the whole ensemble."

Sasa forcibly nodded. With very limited time and based on their current analysis, he was basically sure that the secret to the dragon's scale was hidden in the sword intent within. One could not find out the secret merely from reading the inscriptions.

Therefore, he agreed, "Then we'll combine all the paragraphs for analysis. I need the results to be out within three days."

After giving it some thought, he realized that his expectations were really too high. He softened and said, "I'll get more people to help. You guys will just need to hang in there for a little longer.

"As long as the dragon's scale can be fully deciphered, I'll ensure an additional bonus of 1,000 gold per person apart from the conditions I promised you earlier."

Hearing this news, those present cheered. A reward of 1,000 gold was considered a huge sum. Even Sasa felt a small pinch. However, as long as they could decipher the whole text before Fang Xingjian, these were investments he could afford to make.

'Fang Xingjian…'

"Xingjian, it didn't work." James shook his head and said, "When we went to investigate, the school's teacher and those three students were no longer there. Someone is keeping them hidden.

"It seems like they are bent on doing this. We had better prepare for the worst."

Fang Xingjian's brows knitted tightly together. He did not have a lot of time, and right now, the thing he hated the most was to waste his time on such ridiculous things.

He asked, "What would happen if they were to report this matter to the association?"

"The association monitors each set of martial technique in the Knight's handbook very closely, since there could be thousands or tens of thousands or Knights, hundreds of thousands or even millions of Knight apprentices who might pick them up.

"They would rather wrongfully accuse 1,000 rather than let a problematic one get away unscathed.

"The association as well as myself have evaluated your Rebirth Sword Technique, and verified that there weren't any problems with it before it even got into the Knight's handbook. Now that a problem was found, it won't just implicate us, but the association as well. Therefore, they will act very quickly and first release an announcement to stop all cultivation and experimentation of the Rebirth Sword Technique.

"They will then request for you to submit all relevant materials, interrogate you, and put you through arbitration. If you are unable to prove that your sword technique has no problems, the Knight Association will form a team of professionals to retest and re-evaluate the entire sword technique.

"If they can't come to any conclusions, they may get apprentices of varying conditions to go through one, two, or even three rounds of testing until they are sure that there are absolutely no issues."

James frowned and sighed, "With that, you may need several years to clear up your name. Even if your name will eventually be cleared, the negative impacts it brought you would be irreversible. In the end, there might not be many people who would dare to pick up your Rebirth Sword Technique."

Fang Xingjian said, "We can't let them test and examine the case without a time limit. We must make sure that the Rebirth Sword Technique is proven to have no problems at the arbitration."

The most practical and reliable way of proving this would obviously be to get a large number of people to pick up the Rebirth Sword Technique. However, this would take up too much time and resources. Not many people would use such a method to prove that a sword technique had no problem, regardless what sword technique it was.

So how could people who were not experts in sword arts determine whether a sword technique was good or bad? Of course, they would take advice from the real experts.

Just like how, for the Knight Association's arbitration, one factor was to see the materials which Fang Xingjian had prepared himself, and another factor was to see whether Fang Xingjian could invite enough important characters who held weight to speak for him.

Sword arts had always been for the highbrows, and most ordinary humans did not know any profound sword theories. When they could not rely on their own brains to assess a sword technique, the only thing they could do was to listen to experts' suggestions.

The stronger the experts, the greater their reputations, the more people would listen to them.

"I'll send people to continue keeping a lookout for those three students, but we also need to make our preparations." James was infuriated by the thought of there being a scandal that a sword technique created by a Great Western Region's Conferred Knight had resulted in students suffering from internal injuries.

"Don't worry, I'll look for a few heavyweight old friends. Even if you were to be put through an arbitration, you definitely won't be on the losing end."

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Chapter 316 Letters

Even after hearing James' words, it was impossible for Fang Xingjian to not take any action.

He arrived at the entrance to the Sacred Land, saw Zhou Xingwen who was waiting there, and walked toward him.

In terms of networking, Fang Xingjian was far from a match for James, who was the Regional Academy's Headmaster two generations ago and was very senior in comparison. However, this did not mean that Fang Xingjian had no connections at all.

Handing three letters to Zhou Xingwen, Fang Xingjian said, "Help me to send out these three letters. The letters must definitely be delivered into their hands."

Taking a look at the envelopes, Zhou Xingwen saw that the first one was addressed to Rehlings of the Northern Ice Region Regional Academy and asked, "You know this person? Rumor has it that his skills surpass even that of the Northern Ice Region's Governor."

Fang Xingjian did not say anything. Truth be told, if Rehlings had not sent someone to invite him over to the Northern Ice Region for an exchange a few days back, Fang Xingjian would not have known about him. This letter was being sent out as a last resort. He was not really sure if Rehlings would be willing to stand up for him during the arbitration with regard to the Rebirth Sword Technique.

Zhou Xingwen then took a look at the second envelope. It was addressed to the current Headmaster of the Regional Academy and the Governor of the Great Western Region, Devitt. Zhou Xingwen knew that Devitt had great admiration and support for Fang Xingjian.

However, he did not know that Fang Xingjian was in fact trying to contact the Second Prince. Having encountered something like the association's arbitration, even if Fang Xingjian had absolute confidence in the Rebirth Sword Technique, he would be too foolish if he were to take on the matter alone and wait for backup only after finding himself in trouble.

Even a lion would use its full strength when going against a rabbit. Fang Xingjian naturally needed to make good use of whatever time he had and call up all the help he could. Particularly, it would be even better if the Governor and the Second Prince could help speak up for him.

Then when Zhou Xingwen saw the third letter, his eyes seemed to pop out as he said in astonishment, "You want to send a letter to this… this Lord?"

"Mmm, just give it a try."

Fang Xingjian's third letter was addressed to the Holy Orison. This Divine level expert had once wanted to take Fang Xingjian as his disciple. If the Holy Orison had really done so in admiration of Fang Xingjian's talent, he might be willing to help Fang Xingjian.

Moreover, Fang Xingjian had also added in some perks into the content of the letter. He was not sure if someone like the Holy Orison would be satisfied with it, but it was still worth a try. After all, if a person like the Holy Orison were to stand on Fang Xingjian's side, Fang Xingjian would basically be considered to have won the arbitration. Who would dare rebut a theory supported by the Holy Orison?

If the Holy Orison were to say that there was no problems with the Rebirth Sword Technique, who would dare to say otherwise?

After making arrangements for these three letters to be sent out, Fang Xingjian headed for the Sword Tower, planning to continue with his research. Regardless how the association's arbitration would turn out, he had done what he needed to do. It was all so that he would not have to waste time, which would then affect his training.

If this problem were to persist to the extent of adversely affecting his training and progress, it would be placing his priorities in the reversed order.

When Fang Xingjian arrived at the Sword Tower, he noticed that the surrounding people were casting somewhat strange gazes at him. There were gazes which seemed to be filled with pity and disdain, while there were also people who seemed to happy at his misfortune. These people pointed at Fang Xingjian and then seemed to say something to the people next to them.

Leon walked over with a slightly gloomy look. When he saw Fang Xingjian, he only said coldly, "Xingjian, come over here for a moment. Teacher Hoppes is looking for you."

Earlier that morning, the Sword Arts Department had received a notice from the Knight Association, raising the issue of how the Rebirth Sword Technique had caused internal injuries. It was requested for the department to first conduct an internal investigation.

Hoppes, as the person who had evaluated the sword technique, had also received a stern warning. As a result, Leon who was Hoppes' disciple, also felt ashamed.

All of these things were due to Fang Xingjian. So, right now, there was no way Leon would be able to have a good expression when facing Fang Xingjian.

When Fang Xingjian arrived at the office, Hoppes lifted his head, took at look at Fang Xingjian and said with a smile, "Xingjian, you're here." He handed Xingjian the notice sent by the association and asked, "What do you think about this?"

"It's just a waste of my time. The Rebirth Sword Technique definitely has no problems."

Leon said angrily, "If there are no problems with the Rebirth Sword Technique, then why would those three suffer from internal injuries? Ordinary Nurturing sword techniques would definitely not be able to cause injuries.

"And did you know? Based on the latest news which I heard from my old classmates, someone from the central government has already found these three people. They aren't suffering from ordinary internal injuries, but rather, all of their internal organs have deteriorated. The three people are now completely crippled. They would suffer from internal bleeding the moment they try to exert force. There's no way that they can pick up martial arts anymore.

"If this were to go on, even their lives would be in danger."

The three of them had picked up the Rebirth Sword Technique concurrently, and all three of them suffered the deterioration of their internal organs. Furthermore, all three of them were crippled of their ability to continue to pursue martial arts. So, the situation was much more serious than before.

If it was previously only highlighted that there might be a problem with the Rebirth Sword Technique, then such consequences could only make the arbitration be treated even more seriously.

"Oh? We couldn't find them, yet the association could find them so easily?

"Then it's all the more likely that the problem was with them." Fang Xingjian did not yield at all. It could be said that from this moment until the arbitration was over, he would not be making any concessions. This was because if he were to show any hints of weaknesses, or even admit that there could possibly be some problem with the Rebirth Sword Technique, he would not receive any forgiveness. Rather, would find himself in everlasting damnation.

Moreover, he had absolute confidence in the Rebirth Sword Technique. So, their actions only seemed like a joke to him.

Hoppes stopped Leon and said, "Theoretically, there shouldn't be any problems with the Rebirth Sword Technique. My focus is not on this. Since the association is stirring up trouble out of nothing, there's no way I can just watch as someone from our academy gets bullied."

Having said that, he let out a cold snort and continued saying, "Those people from the Knight Association don't strive for progress and only focus on bureaucracy. To think that they're actually currently placing their attention on our Great Western Region.

"However, the consequences are really serious now, and there is even the possibility of losing your life, so you must be even more careful during the arbitration. But Xingjian, don't worry. I've already started to cultivate the Rebirth Sword Technique. If there's an arbitration, I'll stand up for you as well.

"The reason I've called you here today is to tell you not to worry, and just focus on your training and research. Don't be affected by external influences. I know there are some people in the academy who are jealous of your abilities, but there's no need to pay them much heed."

Leon frowned and said, "Teacher, what if something were to happen to you during your cultivation of the Rebirth Sword Technique?"

Hoppes glared at Leon and said, "How many times have I told you this? The most important thing in sword arts cultivation and martial techniques research is to not follow the crowd. You must believe in your own cultivation level, believe in the sword theories, and believe in your own judgement. Don't always follow others."

With that, he waved his hand and said, "Xingjian, you may leave. Focus on your training and don't be distracted."

"Thank you, Teacher Hoppes." Fang Xingjian then suddenly asked, "Teacher, do you know of any martial techniques which can allow a person to create a clone from the earth?"

"Oh? Why have you suddenly thought of asking this?" Hoppes gave it some thought and said, "The Ninety Thousand Godly Demon Flash you're learning is already a top notch Killing technique which creates clones.

"As for other techniques which can create clones, most of them would just controls and forcibly condenses material substances…"

"I don't mean just the creation of ordinary clones but something that can independently move from a far distance and even speak."

Hoppes's brows twitched as he said, "Such martial techniques are very rare. I heard that the Sand Country is more apt in controlling earth and sand. The Eastern Sand Region who are constantly at war with them for so many years would know more about these."

"Thank you, Teacher. Then I'll be taking my leave."

'So, it's really the Sand Country?'

Under various gazes, Fang Xingjian arrived at the research room where the dragon's scale was located. However, before he even got near the dragon's scale, he heard loud snores.

After Fang Xingjian left, Hoppes suddenly let out a long sigh.

Leon asked, "Master, what's wrong?"

Hoppes said, "You still can't accept this, right? This is because you're only looking at the surface of the case."

"The surface?"

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Chapter 317 Absorbing

"Is there really a need to prove whether ]the Rebirth Sword Technique is harmful?" Hoppes shook his head. "This is just an excuse. Since someone started the first step, there would naturally be people who are driving the rest of the events.

"Do you know that when I first saw the Rebirth Sword Technique, what I felt wasn't just excitement but more so of terror?

"If the Rebirth Sword Technique is really able to increase one's potential by ten times or more, then how much more powerful would all the Knights, Conferred Knights, and Knight apprentices become?

"If it is real, then what is going to happen to the Nurturing sword techniques from the other factions? What would the other factions do? Would they give up on their own Nurturing sword techniques? Then would they still have any apprentices? What if they don't give up on their own Nurturing sword techniques? Then would their apprentices be gradually surpassed by the others in the Empire?

"And from the point of the government, what would they think when they look at the people from the middle and lower levels and when they think about all the Knights and Knight apprentices who would go through great improvements in their abilities? Would they really hope to see that the other factions would also be able to get their hands on this sword technique? Will it be to the extent that even the Church of Universal Truth is going to get their hands on this sword technique? Would they really wish to see their subordinates suddenly becoming stronger and see even apprentices, who were not previously in the system, also become stronger?"

When Hoppes said till this point, Leon's back was already completely drenched in sweat. "You're saying that this time around, we're going up against…"

Hoppes simply stood up, looked out of the window to see the people passing by, and said, "Five hundred years ago, in order to forbid commoners from picking up martial arts, the Khstan Empire had even disseminated a theory that if commoners were to practice martial arts, they would experience signs of premature aging.

"Two hundred years ago, in order to allow the tobacco trade to flourish, the Northern Trade Association had propagated to the Empire the absurd theory that the consumption of tobacco can increase one's attributes.

"In this world, the right to speak has always been in the hands of the strong. That is, unless there's someone even stronger who breaks their control."

"But if that was the case, why would the association publish the Rebirth Sword Technique in the Knight's handbook?"

Hoppes laughed out loud, "It's because they don't believe in it. They knew how amazing the Rebirth Sword Technique was, but they didn't believe at all in the ten times efficiency of the Rebirth Sword Technique. With 5,000 points potential points… who would believe that it's real?

"And right now, the reason they have gone so far only proves that someone from the central governance has succeeded in learning the Rebirth Sword Technique.

"But, Teacher, why are you doing this? If His Majesty and the heads of those factions don't prepare to accept the Rebirth Sword Technique…"

"They should accept it." Hoppes said calmly, "I only hope that all of the Empire's younger generation can get to cultivate the most outstanding sword techniques. I hope that all powerful martial techniques can be disseminated and not just be in the control of a small group of people.

"I wish that when I had started picking up sword arts at the age of five, I was able to learn a sword technique like this."

"Does Xingjian knows?"

"He doesn't have to."

In another place, Fang Xingjian opened the door to the research room and walked in. He saw that majority of Sasa's subordinates had already fallen asleep. They were really too tired, having slept for only one to two hours a day. Working endlessly on deciphering the Ancient Era's language for Sasa had caused their brains to be overworked, sapping them fully of their energy.

When Sasa saw Fang Xingjian come in, he put up a forced smile. "You're here? Then we'll leave. You can continue."

When Sasa passed by Fang Xingjian, he heard Fang Xingjian say softly, "If I tell you the secret to the dragon's scale, will you stop?"

Sasa stopped in his tracks, and at the next moment, he asked puzzledly, "What secret? What stop?"

Fang Xingjian smiled slightly and said, "It's nothing. I've also reached a bottleneck in my research. I reckon that in the end, you'll be the one to successfully resolve the mystery to the dragon's scale."

Sasa left the research room with his subordinates, but when he was walking along the corridor, the expression in his gaze changed. 'This guy already suspects me? But it's useless now. I only helped to push for the first step. Right now, even if I want to stop it, I won't be able to.

'The Rebirth Sword Technique's problems? Its biggest problem is that it's too outstanding. Something which will give one a lead of ten years will receive great praises, but one that gives a person a lead of a hundred years will only be beaten down by the current influences.

'They won't allow such power to be made available to apprentices and various factions.

'Moreover, the factions… If it's said that the apprentices are the foundations, then the Rebirth Sword Technique is something which will unearth them right from the roots.'

In the research room, Fang Xingjian watched as Sasa left. He thought coldly to himself, 'Could it be him?'

Fang Xingjian had originally thought that the person threatening him was from the Sand Country and that their target was the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor he wore. However, when he saw Sasa, he suddenly recalled that this person had stayed at the borders of the Sand Country for many years and fought many of the Sand Country's experts.

There was no way that Fang Xingjian could see through a person's heart. However, a level 21 Conferred Knight was able to see the brainwaves and emotions in the human body.

People who did not know the inside story would definitely not understand the meanings of the secret and request to stop which Fang Xingjian mentioned earlier. The 'threat for him to head to the Sand Country' was something which Fang Xingjian had not even told the Head of Department and Hoppes. He had only mentioned the thing about the internal injuries.

However, when Fang Xingjian mentioned the secret and request to stop to Sasa, he could clearly see ravishing joy, greed, and anxiety in Sasa. Although these emotions had completely disappeared very quickly, and Sasa had also replied that he did not know anything, based on the leads which Fang Xingjian had, he suddenly had a very great suspicion of Sasa as the one driving the whole case.

'He has to go to such great lengths just for a set of Ancient Era sword technique?

'However, with him disguising it as an act of someone from the Sand Country, there's no way I can prove it even if I suspect that it is him.

'Moreover, this is only a suspicion. It might not necessarily be him.'

Fang Xingjian did not have to think hard to know that even though Sasa had the status of a level 29 Conferred Knight, he would have to pay a huge price in order to push for and accelerate the progress of something like this. Moreover, this would at most only delay Fang Xingjian and would not actually be of any help to Sasa's own research.

'Interesting. Could it be that the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent still holds a secret which I am not aware of?'

After all, Fang Xingjian was not a local in the Empire. He had not expected how much of an impact the Rebirth Sword Technique would bring to the entire Empire.

He reached out his hand to touch the dragon's scale and could sense a very sharp aura gushing forth.

The sword intent had neither form nor substance, and there was an indescribable feeling when it entered his body. The feeling could only be described as a series of piercing and seizing pain. It made Fang Xingjian sure that something had come into contact into his body… something which even the level 29 Superior Diving Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor was unable to fend off.

Fang Xingjian could sense that it seemed as if there was something flowing within his consciousness.

'Do you want these sword techniques?

'If you do, then come over and get it.

'As long as you lend me your powers, you're free to have any sword techniques you want.'

Fang Xingjian slowly sent over the information about the Rebirth Sword Technique, continuing to lure out the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent from the dragon's scale.

A few hours passed by, and the sword intent was getting increasingly tempted. It was like a snake, tangling incessantly around Fang Xingjian but hanging on tightly at the last line, not willing to enter Fang Xingjian's body completely.

Then Fang Xingjian finally strengthened his determination and sent all the information about the Rebirth Sword Technique at one go. He then sent out a stream of Ether Sword Ripple, slashing out on the surface of the dragon's scale.

"I have the world's best sword talent. If it's sword techniques that you're looking for, I'm your best choice."

Sensing the endless greed, craving, and other desires coming from the dragon's scale, Fang Xingjian let out a loud laugh and said, "Come. As long as you lend me your powers, I can lend you any kind of sword technique you want. As long as I'm alive, I'll definitely become the world's strongest swordsman and create the world's strongest sword technique. If you want it, then come over."

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Chapter 318 Full-Powered Dash

The next moment, the entire dragon's scale tremored fiercely, as if the sword intent was feeling excited and agitated from Fang Xingjian's words. The atmosphere let out an ear-piercing screech and Fang Xingjian could sense that something in the air seemed to have boiled up. Even the density of the ether particles in the area was gradually increasing.

He then sensed an extremely sharp aura gushing into his brain, as if it wanted to drill into his consciousness.

"Ahh!"

This time around, it was not the simple information flow, just as previously. The entire sword intent scurried in and Fang Xingjian felt as if his brain was going to be sliced into pieces and then explode.

That short moment felt 10,000 years long. Fang Xingjian felt that his eyes seemed to have the ability to observe countless amounts of information, but all of this information stopped on the surface of his consciousness for less than 0.1 seconds before they followed after the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent and entered into Fang Xingjian's deep consciousness.

Sensing that his consciousness was gradually reverting to the initial calm lake rather than the state of boiling water it had been in, Fang Xingjian let out a long breath, 'Have I succeeded?'

He looked at his Stats Window and discovered that there was one more skill there, the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent.

He then unleashed his Heaven's Perception and went deep into his consciousness to look at his own skill seeds.

He discovered something. Previously, the skill seeds of the various sword techniques were part of a faint flow on the outskirts of their arrangement and were circling around with the Waves and mental cultivation method as the center point.

But with the appearance of the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent, the skill seed that represented it shone as brightly as the sun, having violently knocked away all other skill seeds and having dashed to the middle. This caused the Prodigious Astral Divine Powers Waves and the Universal Sword Dominance Lunisolar skill seeds to circle around it, while the skill seeds of the other sword techniques circled around them on an outer circle.

Fang Xingjian looked at the introduction for the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent.

This skill did not have any levels to it, and the introduction was very simple: survival of the fittest, has the ability to evolve and improve limitlessly. When applied, the user can tap into the power of the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent during battles, depleting 100,000 potential points every second.

Looking at this introduction, Fang Xingjian even felt that this was not really a set of sword technique. It was purely meant to use the power of the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent in battle. And it even depleted 100,000 potential points every second!

Furthermore, Fang Xingjian could sense that the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent in his consciousness was itching for action. He could imagine that once his sword technique stopped improving and he no longer picked up any new sword techniques, this Heaven's Volition Sword Intent would probably leave him.

Still, this Heaven's Volition Sword Intent seemed to be more like a weapon or…

'Diabolic energy?' Fang Xingjian's eyes narrowed. 'Making offerings in exchange for external power… Isn't this very similar to the magic prints and diabolic energy?

'To be depleting 100,000 potential points every second… I wonder how powerful it is.

'But it seems to be something that adds onto my strength and not one with specific attacking stances.'

However, Fang Xingjian did not have 100,000 potential points to deplete right now. He could only save 30,000 potential points everyday and 100,000 potential points would take him four days.

Having briefly understood the concept of the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent, Fang Xingjian lifted his head to look at the dragon's scale before him. The dragon's scale, which had now lost the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent, was no longer emitting a crimson red glow, and it had even lost its fluctuating temperature characteristic.

As he looked at the dragon's scale, Fang Xingjian suddenly smiled.

He then took another look at his Stats Window. His ether synchronization rate had already reached 28%. During this period of time, even though he'd had to study the dragon's scale, spending such a long period of time to study the fluctuations of ether particles had allowed him to maintain the rate at which his ether synchronization rate was improving.

He suddenly recalled what the female teacher had said the other time. When a Conferred Knight's ether synchronization rate reached 30%, he would be able to see various light waves and sound waves.

At the same time, the Conferred Knight would also be able to channel information into other physical substances, just as how the Melancholic Monarch had created the Pantheon Monument, or how the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor's willpower impact was like.

'Since you're so heartless, then don't blame me for not being righteous.'

Since he was sure that Sasa was likely to be the one who had reported cases of internal injuries to the association, Fang Xingjian, who was not someone easy to deal with either, would obviously not let him off.

'You can go back first. You can come back after my synchronization rate has reached 30%.'

Under Fang Xingjian's urging, the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent returned slowly and unwillingly back into the dragon's scale. The dragon's scale turned into a crimson red color once again, again releasing the aura of fluctuating temperature.

The Heaven's Volition Sword Intent was a type of wave that was channeled either with information or with willpower. Its great power came from the one who had channeled it, and that person could already rely purely on willpower or information to affect physical substances.

Therefore, the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent, which had been channeled with similar information, could also directly cause an impact in the physical world, by allowing Fang Xingjian to tap into its power.

And right now, the reason why Fang Xingjian wanted to leave the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent was so that he could take it in when his ether synchronization rate had reached 30%. He would then channel his own information flow disguised as a sword intent into the dragon's scale, for Sasa to absorb.

His ether synchronization rate was already at 28% and he was confident that with the lead that he had, he would definitely be able to reach 30% before Sasa and his team finished deciphering the dragon's scale and started absorbing the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent. He wanted to have a grand switcheroo.

Therefore, for the next few days, Fang Xingjian gave up on his time to analyze the dragon's scale and fully focused on his own cultivation. He would stay in the Sacred Land with 100 times density almost all the time. To the others, it would seem as if he had given up.

In the research room dedicated to the dragon's scale, tens of specialists had gathered. Under Sasa's instructions, some of them were flipping through materials, some were discussing about the characters, some were deducing historical data, and some were sorting out the results of their translation.

In order to provide the usage of his amazing brainpower, the level 29 Conferred Knight, Sasa, was now like a super calculator, sorting all the materials and resources, allowing everyone to showcase their abilities to their greatest extent and thus increasing the rate of their progress.

'It's going to be completed soon. It'll take at most another day for the characters on the dragon's scale to be fully deciphered. Next, I'll be able to move on to analyze the waves.

'As long as I manage to analyze the waves of the dragon's scale and allow my consciousness to enter deep within it, I will be able to start absorbing the sword intent.'

After all, Sasa was a level 29 expert and his cultivation, experience, and intelligence were all not to be underestimated. Although it was not as easy as what Fang Xingjian had gone through, he had basically gained some understanding regarding the existence of the dragon's scale and he knew what were the steps he needed to take next.

Just then, someone walked over and asked, "Sir, our time to research is already up but Fang Xingjian still hasn't appeared today. Do we continue?"

Hearing this news, Sasa could not hold back his laughter, "Him? He's probably too busy now. There's no need to care about him. Let's continue."

It was said that the arbitrators sent by the Empire had already entered Great Western Region the past few days and that they would arrive at the Regional Academy very soon. Fang Xingjian not continuing his research on the dragon's scale was seen by Sasa as him having his rhythm messed up by the arbitration, about to give up.

However, just as he was thinking of this, the door opened and Fang Xingjian walked in slowly.

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Chapter 319 Level 22

One hour ago, in the Sacred Land with 100 times density.

James hurried over to Fang Xingjian's training room with worry. 'The arbitration team sent by the association will be here within these two days, yet Xingjian hasn't been to Sword Tower for a few days now.

'As expected, he is probably still too young and wasn't able to hold it in?'

Thinking of this, James knocked on the door of Fang Xingjian's training room and shouted, "Xingjian, are you there?" The training rooms in the Sacred Land all had a defensive mechanism, and even James was unwilling to barge in just like that.

Soon after, the door was opened. Fang Xingjian threw a glance at James, then he returned to the training ground and continued with his training for the Aquatic Sword Formation. Streams of Aquatic Sword Qis came together and turned into a long river, hanging in midair. It was as if there was a great river flowing to and fro in the air while releasing rumbling sounds.

When James saw this scene, he was stunned for a moment before he said, "You're still in the mood to practice your Aquatic Sword Formation?" This was a totally different Fang Xingjian from what James had imagined.

Fang Xingjian said calmly, "Mmm, I want to make good use of my time in training. It'll give my mind a break as well."

"Giving your mind a break? True, after focusing so much on the words from the Ancient Era, it's good to have a break from it too." James nodded. "There's still one to two days before the arbitration team arrives. I've already contacted all the teachers in the Sword Arts Department. They'll all vouch for you. The few Headmasters of the Prefectural Academies in the Great Western Region will also be coming over.

"it's a pity that the National Selection next year is too important that the old farts from the other major regions are all focusing their time on training their students. Otherwise, I'll definitely call all of them over as well."

Fang Xingjian nodded. Till now, he had yet to receive any reply from the Second Prince, the Northern Ice Region's Rehlings, or the Holy Orison. He let out a sigh in his heart. It seemed like he would only be able able to rely on himself now.

James continued speaking, "The arbitration process isn't complicated. They'll first investigate the condition of the three students with internal injuries before interrogating our witnesses one by one. After that, they will come to you."

"Of course, in order to ensure fairness, the entire arbitration process will be made public, and you must be mentally prepared to face the pressure."

Fang Xingjian nodded. He felt that the association's arbitration was somewhat similar to the court cases on Earth. It was just that in the Empire, the testimonies and prestige of the strong experts were placed above the testimonies and evidence of ordinary people.

This was especially so for such arbitration cases which were related to sword techniques. The party with more prestigious witnesses would have higher chances of winning the case.

James consoled Fang Xingjian, saying, "Don't worry, I've asked around. Other than a few brats from the association and the people involved in that school, there is no one else opposing us. Our chance of winning is very high."

If it were purely to provide evidence for the sword technique, James naturally had nothing to worry about. However, he understood that this case was no longer one which was purely concerning a sword technique. Recently, many obvious as well as subtle hints and warnings had come to him. These had all made him feel tremendous pressure even for someone with his experience in life.

However, seeing how Fang Xingjian was still continuing to grow, James felt gladdened.

'Seems like my old bones will have to hang on for a little bit longer, until Fang Xingjian and his generation matures.'

Fang Xingjian continued his training for the Aquatic Sword Qis. In the next moment, countless streams of Aquatic Sword Qis condensed into a huge wave, turning the entire room into a world of water.

Fang Xingjian's Aquatic Sword Formation had finally reached level 40.

It was also at this moment that his eyes narrowed slightly as there was even more information than before gushing into his consciousness continuously. The amount of information perceived by the Heaven's Perception had increased.

As his sword arts mastery increased, Fang Xingjian's ether synchronization rate followed and progressed further, reaching 30%.

During this moment, countless streams of information of light and sound waves gushed into his brain. He started to be able to 'see' light and sounds.

This was a feeling which was many times more amazing than being able to see light with the naked eye and to hear sounds with ears.

One's vision actually consisted of light reflections the eyes saw, while one's hearing consisted of the air vibrations sensed by the ears.

As the light frequencies one could see and the air vibrations the ears could sense were limited, there was a limit to the things that humans could see and hear.

However, right now, having reached an ether synchronization rate of 30%, Fang Xingjian was able to 'see' a reality which he could never begin to imagine. It was a world where one could 'see' light which could not be seen and where one could see infrasonic and ultrasonic waves.

The entire world seemed to have become extremely strange.

However, it was also because Fang Xingjian could now 'see' light and sounds that even though his Heaven's Perception was only applicable within a ten-meter radius, he could see still sense things from an extremely far distance through the reflected light rays and sounds.

At this stage, even though he was blind, his vision and hearing had already surpassed that of an ordinary person.

James looked at how Fang Xingjian suddenly went into a daze and asked, "Xingjian? What's wrong? Oh, right. You should be trying to hit 30% for your ether synchronization rate soon, right? This Heavenly Barrier is really powerful and dangerous.

"It's because we humans have already gotten used to our current vision and hearing. It can be said that we think the real world is whatever we are able to see and hear.

"However, when your ether synchronization rate reaches 30%, you will see a part of the real world.

"Simply said, everything won't be how they used to be. Their colors, shapes, traces, and other aspects will all change. Your aesthetics, preference, habits, and other senses will all go through tremendous changes.

"And the moment you take a step into this world, you'll never be able to turn back. You'll be sensing all these for 24 hours a day.

"If your willpower is a bit weak, you may just go crazy.

"Remember, when your ether synchronization rate reaches 29%, you mustn't get near the Sacred Land. When the time comes, I'll personally help to make preparations for you to fast, take a bath, and light up incense to calm your mind.

"You must continue to be careful even after clearing this stage. You must learn slowly to filter these information. Otherwise, if you were to immerse in them, your mental state will just get increasingly worse."

Thinking of these, James let out a soft sigh. Having lived for so many years, he had seen many Conferred Knights who had reached this stage. Yet, because they could not withstand how the world actually was, they had either gone crazy or had part of their powers crippled just so that they could return to their original world.

Each step which Conferred Knights took was a lot of hard work, and it could be said that they were constantly progressing toward an inhumane direction.

James then suddenly looked at Fang Xingjian, who was frowning slightly, and asked, "Why, are you not feeling well?"

"Oh, it's nothing." Fang Xingjian shook his head slightly and adapted to the discomfort that the 30% ether synchronization rate had brought him. He said nonchalantly, "My ether synchronization rate has reached 30%. I'll have to trouble you to arrange for some ferocious beasts for me to kill and gain experience."

"Oh, your ether synchronization rate has reached 30%? Alright, I'll arrange to get you some ferocious beasts…" Halfway through his sentence, James suddenly lifted up his head and looked at Fang Xingjian as if he was looking at a ghost.

"Your ether synchronization rate has reached 30%? How long has it been and yet you've progressed again? And didn't I tell you not to do it in the Sacred Land? What about the Heavenly Barrier? Are you affected in anyway?

"At the ether synchronization rate of 30%, the Heavenly Barrier will subject you to various light and sound waves. The entire world will go topsy turvy in your eyes. Many Conferred Knights have gone crazy from this."

Fang Xingjian turned his head slightly. Right now, the world which appeared in his eyes was densely packed with light and sound waves. All the colors were no longer as they had been before. In comparison to the past, everyone now appeared to be twisted and deformed, and all the sounds seemed to be off-pitched.

It felt as if the whole world had changed completely. If one did not have a strong mind and willpower, he would probably really go crazy.

This was because all the things one would see and hear would be different, while one's aesthetic preferences would still be the same as before. Everyone else would look like aliens and monsters, while all physical objects would be as disgusting as if they had emerged from hell. They would appear with colors and distortions unlike before.

However, with Fang Xingjian's strong mind, the ten Heavenly Barriers were nothing to him. He shook his head and said, "I've already adapted to it. There are no problems."

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Chapter 320 Feedback

James stared blankly at Fang Xingjian, "You… I… But this…"

He let out a breath and sorted out his thoughts before saying, "You aren't affected by the ten Heavenly Barriers? You mind didn't receive any impacts?"

"Impacts? Are there any?" Fang Xingjian said with indifference, "I only felt some slight discomfort, but it's alright now."

"Slight discomfort?" James smiled bitterly. Back then, when he himself had reached 30% in his ether synchronization rate, it was as if his perception on the entire world had collapsed. Everyone's appearances and voices were all terribly twisted. Food appeared like shit, and the sound of the wind was like the howling of ghosts. It was a situation which would drive one crazy.

However, Fang Xingjian had gotten over this phase while they were chatting. James did not know how to describe this situation. Even he felt somewhat envious. The talent which Fang Xingjian possessed was truly terrifying.

Most of the time, it was only after the Conferred Knights' cultivation gradually increased in level and was able to affect and filter the information from these light waves and sound waves that they would be able to ignore some of the reality and see what ordinary people saw.

However, Fang Xingjian was not concerned about these. "I'll leave the matters of the arbitration to you. It's my turn to study the ancient artifact today, right? My ether synchronization rate has increased, so I'll go give it another try."

Back to the scene at the Sword Tower, Sasa had just finished saying something when he saw Fang Xingjian pushing open the door and walking in.

"Oh? Xingjian, you're here?" Sasa smiled, "Aren't you pretty busy lately? It's fine even if you don't come."

Fang Xingjian threw Sasa a cold glance and said, "All of you should leave. It's my time to study it now."

Sasa's mouth twitched. He let out a cold snort but eventually got everyone to leave.

Fang Xingjian walked up to the dragon's scale and said, "You can come out now."

Suddenly, something seemed to be moving agitatedly in the air. Once again, Fang Xingjian experienced that tremendous pain as if ten thousand swords had pierced through his heart, and the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent once again entered Fang Xingjian's consciousness.

Glancing at the lifeless dragon's scale, Fang Xingjian let out a faint smile and reached his hand toward it. In a short instant, a gush of information flow surged toward the dragon's scale.

Sword intent was just a type of information flow. The only thing different about it was that the sword intent primarily contained sword theories and emotions toward sword arts.

However, the powerful thing about the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent was that it could affect the physical world with just information alone.

Fang Xingjian felt that this was something which probably only Divine level experts would be able to accomplish.

Additionally, right now, he was trying to write out the sets of theories and emotions toward sword arts, turning them into an information flow and channeling into the dragon's scale.

Of course, it would be impossible for him to use his real sword theories. He merely used a set of fake sword theory which he had came up with.

Fang Xingjian remembered that when he was young, he had taken a great liking to the contents of a particular martial arts story, and he recalled the interpretation of the sword arts mentioned in the story.

[1] 'Marrying Maiden trends toward Innocence, Innocence trends toward Fellowship, and Fellowship trends toward Great Possession [2]. Jia turns to Bing, Bing turns to Geng, Geng turns to Gui [3, Zi connects to Chou, Chen connects to Si, and Wu connects to Wei [4]. The wind and thunder forms one variation, the mountains and rivers form one variation, and the fire and water forms one variation. Qian and Kun stimulates each other, Zhen and Dui stimulates each other, and Li and Xun stimulates each other [5]. Three evolves into five, five evolves into nine…'

After completing what he had set out to do, the dragon's scale once again turned a crimson red due to the information channeled inside. Like before, the dragon scale exuded both scorching hot and extremely chilly auras.

Following this, Fang Xingjian wanted to see just how Sasa was going to fall into a deadlock. However, Fang Xingjian was no longer willing to stay in the research room to put up a pretense, so he simply returned to the Sacred Land and continued his cultivation.

Somewhere else, the team from the central government had already arrived in the Great Western City.

The one in the lead was a beauty who seemed to be below 30 years old, with brilliantly golden hair and a pair of beautiful sapphire eyes.

The lady looked at the streets of the Great Western City and said coldly, "What generation is this now? To think that someone would still dare to mess around with their self-created Nurturing sword technique and cause people to suffer from internal injuries. What on earth are the association's upper management doing that they even approved such a sword technique?"

One of the subordinates smiled bitterly and said, "Madam, Fang Xingjian is the apple of the Governor's and the Second Prince's eyes. You're now in Great Western City, so it's better for you to be careful of what you say."

"Even I have to be careful? Is this His Majesty's country or Devitt's (Governor) country?" The lady let out a cold snort and said, "The budget issued by the Empire every year has been put to waste by these vermins.

"To think that someone would dare to mess around with a Nurturing sword technique now. These are sword techniques which even apprentices would have to cultivate. This is an act of digging at the Empire's foundation. I'll definitely not allow this!

"I'll definitely put in my best for this arbitration!"

Looking at their female commanding officer who wore a righteous expression, all the other Knights broke into bitter smiles.

In the Northern Ice Region, Rehlings emerged from his seclusion. He wore a furious gaze, and his eyes were filled with anxiety and gloom.

"Why?

"Why did it turn out like this?

"What went wrong?"

Rehlings cultivated in saber arts, and although there were many similarities between saber arts and sword arts, when they were put through serious comparisons, there were still many differences.

For example, saber arts focused on slashing while sword arts focused on piercing. This produced great differences when used in battle as well as during cultivation.

However, at Rehlings' level, both saber arts and sword arts were mastered easily. Although his sword arts were not as great as his saber arts, they had also far surpassed the level of an ordinary talent.

When Rehlings went into this recent seclusion, he had wanted to change the Rebirth Sword Technique into his own Rebirth Saber Technique. However, he faced great difficulty in doing so.

Seeing that he was unable to change such a powerful Nurturing sword technique into a saber technique for his own cultivation, this was pure torture to him. It was the feeling of a little kitten looking at dried fish yet was unable to eat them. This made Rehlings feel very anxious.

The moment he came out, he grabbed his younger brother and asked, "Where's Fang Xingjian? Has he come? You've invited him over, haven't you?"

"Uh…" The guy Rehlings grabbed was a muscular man who looked very similar to him. As the muscular man's body was restrained firmly, he let out a bitter laugh and said, "We invited him, but he rejected our invitation."

"Damn it."

"However, his recent situation isn't too good. The central government has sent an arbitration team to the Great Western Region. It seems like there's some problem with the Rebirth Sword technique."

"There's a problem with the Rebirth Sword Technique?" Rehlings frowned and asked, "What problem?"

His younger brother shrugged and said, "I heard that a few apprentices have suffered from a certain degree of internal injuries after picking up the Rebirth Sword Technique. I think it's a deterioration of their internal organs."

"Ridiculous! How can the crap from central government believe in such rubbish?"

"Fang Xingjian sent a letter here for you. It might be a request for your help," his younger brother said carefully. Rehlings' younger brother's talent was not bad, but when compared to his elder brother, the difference between them was just far too great.

This caused his radiance to be completely overshadowed by Rehlings, and he had practically become Rehlings' follower.

"Where's the letter?" Rehlings took the letter as it was handed to him and tore it open violently, reading through it quickly.

"Oh? So, this is how it is? It's a problem with the circulation of my vital energy and blood? Hmm… It has probably clashed with my Waves?

"But how could he possibly know… Hmmm… Seems like this person also circulates his Waves constantly at all times."

Looking at the letter for a few minutes, Rehlings occasionally let out elated mumbles. Then his eyes suddenly widened, and he let out a cold snort, "What is this? This is it?"

He turned to his younger brother and asked, "Where are the letters? He didn't send anymore?"

Seeing his younger brother shrug, Rehlings let out a breath and said, "This is really bad luck. This person is baiting me."

However, he said to his younger brother anyway, "Mmmm, bring a piece of paper here. Write a letter to the Great Western Region Regional Academy."

His younger brother's eyes were wide open as he said, "Brother, you should know why this has happened, right? There are too many complications with this matter, and our clan has yet to decide on our standing in it."

"What is it to me? I know nothing about standing on sides. I don't know what I don't know. I only feel that there's no problem to the Rebirth Sword Technique. You just write what I tell you to."

Rehlings' younger brother let out a cold smile and said, "Brother, you really like to dash into places where trouble brews."

"What's there to be afraid of? There's nothing more important than attaining the Divine level. Leave the mortals to deal with their own problems."

[1] An extract from a novel 'The Smiling, Proud Wanderer' (also has many other English translations of the title) written by a well-known Chinese novelist with the pen name Jin Yong.

https/en./wiki/The_Smiling_Proud_Wanderer

In the novel, it was mentioned that there's apparently over 3,000 words in this incantation! Thank goodness Jin Yong was sane enough not to write the entire thing…

[2] Referring to hexagrams listed in the I Ching or Book of Changes, an ancient Chinese divination text and the oldest of the Chinese classics.

https/en./hexagram_table

[3] Referencing the ten Celestial or Heavenly Stems which are a Chinese system of ordinals that first appeared during the Shang Dynasty. https/en./wiki/Celestial_stem

[4] Referencing the twelve Earthly Branches was a Chinese system for reckoning time. https/en./wiki/Earthly_Branches

[5] Referencing the eight trigrams used in Taoist cosmology. https/en./wiki/Bagua

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Chapter 321 Investigate

In another place, at Yalan Sacred Mountain.

On the snow peaks, a figure was swinging a longsword in the snow. Wherever the longsword passed by, the air would tremble and the snowflakes would scatter around. Then as the person performed different sword moves, trembling sounds emitted from his body.

It was as if there was thunder both inside and outside his body. This was the circulation of the vital energy and blood of a cultivator as the sword moves changed.

Yuelun walked up and looked at the scene where sword Qis were flying around. He stroked his beard and sighed, "This set of Rebirth Sword Technique really lives up to its name. The movements of the sword not only cultivates the muscles and internal organs, it even reaches deep into the bone marrow. It can also completely change one's physique and stimulate the potential of the human body from the very roots.

"Brother Huang Lin, your sword art has shown great improvement again in this one month."

The cultivator stopped his practice, and in that instant, a huge amount of heat was emitted from his body as if he had become like a huge stove. This was because all parts of his body had been in cultivation, and a large amount of heat had been amassed in his body and needed to be released.

In just an instant, a large part of the surrounding snow was melted. Huang Lin laughed out loud and said, "This Rebirth Sword Technique is just too complicated. With my level of cultivation, even though I continue to practice endlessly day and night, I've only managed to reach the first level. It's hard to imagine how long it would take for ordinary people."

"It's worth it even if it takes a few years to learn. The effects of the Rebirth Sword Technique are incomparable with the effects of existing Nurturing sword techniques" Yuelun said as he looked at Huang Lin.

Huang Lin walked out from the puddle of melted snow, looked at Yuelun energetically, and said, "Has the Guardian King made his decision? I can go to the Great Western City, right?"

"Haha, are you still in a hurry to head over to testify for your disciple?" Yuelun laughed. "Actually, even if you don't go, the more they dispute, the more the truth will come to light. In the end, they will also end up proving that the Rebirth Sword Technique has no problems."

"But the process of proving this won't be easy, right? There is too much pressure coming in from various sources. It's better to let me make a trip and cut it to the chase. This will save them from wasting too much time and resources."

Yuelun let out a sigh. He thought of Fang Xingjian's face and still had a rather indescribable feeling.

He put out his hand and handed a letter to Huang Lin.

"This is the letter Master took time off to write. He has already cultivated to level 10 in the Rebirth Sword Technique and can receive about 8,000 potential points everyday. Of course, this is also partially due to Master's level of cultivation, but it would at least prove how powerful the Rebirth Sword Technique is. You can bring this letter with you to the Great Western City."

Surprise flashed past Huang Lin's eyes. "The Guardian King is willing to testify for Xingjian?"

"It's more than just testifying." Yuelun's gaze held a complicated expression. "Master has submitted Fang Xingjian's records to the north and hopes to invite him to take part in the Martial Techniques Grading Plan."

The Martial Techniques Grading Plan was a great plan which the Church of Universal Truth had been preparing for the past few years.

This plan aimed to classify all the martial techniques in the world into categories and grades.

For example, amongst Nurturing sword techniques, the Rebirth Sword Technique should be considered a sword technique with a high grade, while the Grizzly Bear Sword Technique and the Eagle Sword Technique would probably be considered as sword techniques with low grades.

However, how high or how low would they be? There had never been any standardized system.

Thus, the Martial Techniques Grading Plan aimed to test out all the martial techniques' effects and growth possibilities, eventually segregating all the martial techniques' effects and prowess.

How many martial techniques were there in the world? How many people in the Miracle World practiced martial arts?

Once this plan was started, it would deplete a tremendous amount of resources, and once this plan succeeded, it would change and bring great benefit to the entire world.

Only the Church of Universal Truth, an organization which had once unified the entire north and still remained the world's most powerful organization, would be able to accomplish something like this.

When Huang Lin heard this, he was stunned for a moment before he asked, "The Guardian King wishes to let Xingjian participate in this plan as well?"

Yuelun smiled and said, "That's right. The Martial Techniques Grading Plan… Even if one were to take charge of only a small portion of sword techniques, the number of secret manuals and cultivating resources he could gain access to would be a tremendous number. This is a wonderful thing."

In Yuelun's mind, he could not help but recall Fang Xingjian's face and thought to himself, 'Master, for you to be bringing him into sights of those influential people in the north this early on… What on earth are you planning?

'And is it really good for us to be getting ourselves involved in this vortex that is happening in the Empire?'

In the commoner district of the Great Western City.

Sally, the arbitrator who had come from the central government, walked slowly into a small alley. However, before she even got close, she was already covering her nose.

A great stench gushed forth. It was obvious that the hygiene in the commoner district was too horrible, and it made Sally extremely uncomfortable.

One of her subordinates came up and said, "Madam, it'll be fine if we go in alone. You can wait outside."

"No need to say anymore. I can hang on." Sally lightly took in a few breaths to get accustomed to the stench, then she headed deeper into the commoner district.

"But why are they still staying in such a place? Haven't our people already found them and started to protect them?"

"They… aren't being very co-operative. They aren't very willing to leave with us, thus we're letting them go into hiding and then sending people to protect them."

On the way, Sally saw people with numb and greedy gazes, as well as terrified emotions.

'The commoners in the Empire are leading truly difficult lives. The country still has a very long way to go.' Sally suddenly thought of Fang Xingjian, and clenched her fist, 'B*stards like him won't care how the commoners live. He'll only care about his own glory.'

The group walked up to a small house and knocked on the door. Then they opened it and entered.

They saw a skinny young man lying on the bed. A little girl walked out and looked at them with a wary and terrified gaze. She asked, "Who are you people?"

Sally smiled and looked at the little girl, saying, "Hello. Don't be scared. We're the arbitrators from the central government. We're here to look for Mike. Is he in?"

The little girl turned subconsciously and looked toward the young man on the bed.

That lean young man sat up. His bloodshot eyes were sunken in, and his face was pale, obviously a sign of malnutrition. He looked at Sally warily and asked, "You're arbitrators?"

"That's right. We're the arbitrators from the Knight Association." Sally walked over and said gently, "We're here with regards to the Rebirth Sword Technique. You're the one who had cultivated the Rebirth Sword Technique and ended up suffering from deterioration of your internal organs?"

Mike was stunned for a moment before he plunged his head down and mumbled, "What's the point of investigating? I'm already a cripple."

"Of course, there's a point." Sally said righteously, "If you don't step forward now, there will be even more victims in the future. If we can't prove that there's a problem with the Rebirth Sword Technique this time around, there will be even more people suffering from the same condition as you and their organs will deteriorate. Therefore, we need your help."

Seeing that Mike was not showing any reactions, Sally gradually started to sense the condition of his body.

As a level 25 Conferred Knight with a ether synchronization rate of 60%, Sally's synchronization rate was already capable of sensing the existence of cells and bacteria. She also had a more accurate grasp of the human body.

So, the moment she tried to sense Mike's condition, her eyes opened wide and fury started to burn in her heart.

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Chapter 322 Fury

From what Sally sensed, Mike's stomach seemed to be like one which belonged to a dying old man. Not only had it completely shrivelled up, it was even like the rotting root of a tree, with most parts of it starting to decompose and fail.

The stomach was of great importance, especially during the apprentice stage. This was the most important part of the body which allowed one to absorb nutrition.

Now that his stomach had serious deterioration, not only would Mike be unable to cultivate, he might even die.

When Sally saw this scene, how could she not feel infuriated? It was as if she was going to spew flames out from her eyes. "This is really a complete disregard for human lives. How can a true Nurturing sword technique cause one's internal organs to fail and rot?

"Fang Xingjian, this scoundrel… To think that he would release such a sword technique just for his own benefit."

One of her subordinates let out a cough and said, "Madam, our job is to enforce the law impartially. So, it's best that we don't take a stance on this issue first. Moreover, in terms of sword theories, there are no major flaws in the Rebirth Sword Technique…"

"Sword theories? Flaws?" Sally said furiously, "Look at these kids! This is the result of the sword theories that you guys are going on about! You are mere humans. Do you think that just by knowing some sword theories, you know about the truth of the world? Who do you think you are?!

"Everyone is like this. Just because you've attained some extraordinary strength, you'll call yourself a god. Are you trying neglect the truth that's placed right in front of your eyes?

"Even if it makes it past the evaluation of sword theories, if there's even one out of ten thousand chances that it could be harmful, we must prevent him from disseminating it. Isn't this our job? Are the sword theories which give rise to such a tragedy the power that you believe in?"

One of her subordinates said, "Madam, we must at least wait for the arbitration to be over before we announce the results."

"Is there still a need put this through a trial? If… Hmph…" Under the strong restraints of her subordinates, Sally did not continue speaking. Instead, she looked at Mike with pity and said, "Mike, tell us everything you know. When did you start feeling pain in your stomach? What have you cultivated and eaten? And how was your work and rest schedule like when you were picking up this sword technique?"

For that whole day, Sally visited a total of three apprentices who had met with mishaps, as well as the school's teacher, other apprentices, and staff. To her, the result was shocking.

Whatever she enquired on would appear to be very normal, with the exception of the fact that Mike and the others had picked up the Rebirth Sword Technique. From this point, it seemed as if the cause to the entire problem would lie in the Rebirth Sword Technique.

"To think that such a sword technique was able to pass the association's examination." Sally clenched her teeth and said, "Inform the people from the Great Western Region Regional Academy that the arbitration will start in three days. Let them prepare themselves. I shall see how they are going to explain this.

"After this arbitration, I'll put in the application to stop all exchanges and learning activities of the Rebirth Sword Technique as soon as possible and have it banned.

"Oh, right. Bring all of them with us and protect them. We must definitely not let them suffer any further harm.

"The faults of adults shouldn't be borne by these children."

In the office of James, the Head of Department, in the Great Western Region Regional Academy, there were seven to eight veteran teachers of the Sword Arts Department of varying ages. Aside from Hoppes, who was focusing on his research and was unable to come, these were already the greatest characters in the Sword Arts Department.

Additionally, right now, Fang Xingjian was standing behind James and silently received the gazes of the many people.

James said, "The arbitration team sent by the central government has already arrived in the Great Western City. They had just went to take a look at that three students who were injured. All of them suffer from serious deterioration of their internal organs, and it is life threatening. The arbitration will probably be conducted in a few days time."

A Conferred Knight with a beard said impatiently, "What's there to discuss about this? Those who really understand sword arts and has a sufficient level of sword arts cultivation would never feel that there's a problem with the Rebirth Sword Technique.

"This set of sword technique is one which extracts the essence of several Nurturing sword techniques. If there is a problem with it, then wouldn't it be saying that there's a problem with the other Nurturing sword techniques as well?"

Another female Conferred Knight said, "Things are not so simple. The Rebirth Sword Technique will affect everyone in the Empire. It may be that the people in the upper echelon have yet to decide on how to handle a bomb like this."

Fang Xingjian blinked. It seemed that it was only now that he realized that the Rebirth Sword Technique might not be something that many people were willing to see in the current Empire.

James interrupted them and said, "Alright, stop fighting. Anyway, the people from the association are coming, but Xingjian is one of us. We can't let the people from the central government do as they wish.

"Therefore, this time around, we must take the same stand. The reason I've called you all over is so that we can unify our thinking. Don't be a hindrance for me during the arbitration."

"Head of Department, don't worry. How could we create trouble for you?"

"This time around, the association is being reckless. They are blaming the sword technique just because three people have gotten injured? There must be someone pushing this from the back."

"Only a group of people who don't understand sword arts would think that this is a problem with the Rebirth Sword Technique. A sword technique like this should be disseminated."

"I also hope that my son and grandchildren in the future will be able to practice a sword technique like the Rebirth Sword Technique."

James nodded in satisfaction. "Alright, you guys can go back now. I hope that you'll perform well during the arbitration, but don't go overboard. Just stick to the facts."

Watching as every gradually took their leave, James nodded and said, "When the time comes, Governor Devitt, the Vice-Governors, and the Regional Academy will all be here to testify for you. Don't worry. You're now a member of our Regional Academy and we'll definitely not let you get the worst of it."

Fang Xingjian nodded, "Thank you Head of Department."

"No need to thank me. Work hard and don't waste your talent. This will be my greatest consolation." Then James suddenly asked, "Oh, right. I heard that you haven't gone to the Sword Tower these few days? Have you been affected? Don't be affected by this. Just do whatever you should be doing."

"I know. I haven't been affected."

"Then that's fine. Cultivate if you should be doing so, and analyze the ancient writings if you should be doing so. With me around, even if the Head of the Association were to come, they wouldn't be able to do as they wish with you." James' expression sunk a little. They had not been able to find those three brats even after trying for such a long time, yet the people from the arbitration team could see them immediately upon arrival. It was hard for him to believe that there was nothing fishy going on.

"Head of Department, is there a lot of pressure this time around?" Fang Xingjian suddenly looked at James and asked, "I'm guessing the arbitration is no longer as simple as proving if the Rebirth Sword Technique is harmful?"

James looked at him and said with a smile, "Hehe, it's nothing much. These are things that we have to handle. You just focus on your research. Oh, right, when will you be giving me the remaining four levels of the mysteries to the Pantheon Monument?"

Fang Xingjian stared at him. The two of them locked gazes, and it seemed that neither party was willing to give in.

In the end, James was still the one who shook his head and said, "It's useless even if you were to know. It'll only add on to your troubles and affect your training. So, what's the point of telling you?" The pressure was really too great. James thought of all the people who had been visiting him in succession recently, asking him questions and trying to mediate the situation. He really did not wish to transfer all this pressure onto Fang Xingjian as it would affect his training and research negatively.

Fang Xingjian continued to say, "There's no way that you'll be able to hide it. You still don't plan to tell me?"

James' mouth twitched. "They're just some old men who can't bear to part with the small short term interests and hope to obstruct the world's development. They're probably the ones feeling more pressurized."

"Stopping the world's development…"

Fang Xingjian lowered his head, and his mind started twirling. Wasn't the Second Prince's faction the revolutionists?

In that case, since the Rebirth Sword Technique would be able to raise the level of the commoners and weaken the influence of the royal family and other factions, it would be the equivalent of weakening those in power and increasing the fluidity of those who could come into power. This opened a new door for the revolutionists.

So, what role had the Second Prince played in this? Fang Xingjian thought to himself, 'Is that why the academy is so supportive of me bringing up the Rebirth Sword Technique? They've seen through the possibility of this set of sword technique in helping them create a revolution in the Empire and hasten the breaking of the current rigid regime…'

Fang Xingjian had to admit that in comparison to these people, his sensitivity toward political issues was still too immature. When he was still focusing on the sword technique, the Second Prince had already started to use the Rebirth Sword Technique to lay out his plans for the country and had started to fight a war with the resisting influences.

However, Fang Xingjian was unconcerned. He was only interested in sword arts to begin with and had only wanted to use sword arts to solve problems. This was his style.

After leaving James' office, he started to head for the Sacred Land. However, on the way, he saw Rota walking toward him. Behind her, there were two other men in black whom Fang Xingjian had never seen before.

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Chapter 323 Pressure

Looking at Fang Xingjian, Rota forced a smile and asked, "Have you been well?"

When Fang Xingjian saw the two people behind Rota, he responded with a question, "What's wrong?"

"Nothing." Rota fell silent for a moment before she suddenly asked, "Xingjian, what do you think of the Rebirth Sword Technique?"

"It's a good sword technique."

Just as Fang Xingjian was saying this, one of the men in black behind Rota stepped forward and said, "Alright, Rota, stop wasting time. Let me say it out directly."

This man in black had white hair and a childlike complexion. However, his gaze was extremely cold, and his lips were very thin and extremely pale. He was clearly a very vicious person.

The lips of the old man in black were curled downward as he said while looking at Fang Xingjian, "Fang Xingjian, the Rebirth Sword Technique is involved in too big a repercussion. You shouldn't have released the sword technique before having studied the sword technique in its entirety. You're too careless in this area.

"You should cultivate for a few more years before you create your own sword technique."

Fang Xingjian threw a glance at Rota and asked, "Who is this old guy?"

The old man in black said furiously with his eyes wide open, "It's exactly as what the rumors say. What an arrogant young man."

Rota frowned and said helplessly, "Xingjian, this is our clan's Old Ancestor. He left the clan 50 years ago for his cultivation and has never meddled in our affairs. However, he's now here to let us pass you a message.

"Old Ancestor has already completed the second transition and is at level 22."

For a city's small aristocratic clan like the one Rota belonged to, a level 22 Conferred Knight was already a great godlike existence. However, Rota did not appear to have much respect for him. After all, they were in the Regional Academy, and she had even seen the scenes in which Fang Xingjian had defeated Conferred Knights multiple times.

"Since you have already left the clan, why are you back now? You're not around when others need you, yet you appear when they don't." How could Fang Xingjian possibly care about a level 22 Conferred Knight? He threw a glance at the old man in black and said directly, "Scram. Don't meddle with Rota. Her talent is much higher than yours. Don't hold her up."

"Me? You're saying that I'm holding her up?!" The old man in black was so angry that it seemed as if his lungs were going to explode. 50 years ago, he had left the clan and joined the Lijiang Sect. After putting great work and effort in his cultivation while he was under the Lijiang Sect, he had finally reached the second transition and level 22. Which ordinary person of the younger generation would not tremble in fear when they saw him?

This time around, he had received orders from his Sect Master to have a talk with Fang Xingjian. Who would have thought that this Fang Xingjian would not even give him any respect?

"Excellent, excellent, excellent. Do you think that I won't dare to do anything to you just because you have James and Hoppes backing you up? I'm going to take action now. I shall see what they can do to me when they aren't here with you."

As he spoke, the old man stretched out his hand, and many blood arrows shot out from his palms. In the blink of an eye, they had already transformed into a blood spear, thrusting out toward Fang Xingjian.

This Myriad Blood Spear contained countless curses and poisons. At the slightest contact, it would seep into one's body through the skin. When that happened, the victim would suffer from great itches and pain, making it a great dilemma for one to choose between life and death.

The arm of the old man in black shook slightly, and the blood spear turned into a surging blood wave heading toward Fang Xingjian. It was as if the blood wave wanted to drown Fang Xingjian's entire body and give him a serious taste of agony.

The blood wave surged upward like a tsunami. Combined with a piercing stench of blood, it would scare an ordinary person almost to death. This blood wave would probably be able to drown an entire village.

The old man's attack fully displayed the tyrannical power of a level 22 Knight; he did not hold back at all. He truly wanted to teach Fang Xingjian a good lesson.

'Hmph, this dratted young lad. To think that just because a few old men from the Great Western Region praised him, he no longer knows how big the world is out there.'

Just as the old man was thinking of this, Fang Xingjian tapped a single finger and created over a thousand streams of Aquatic Sword Qis. They surged forth and also turned into a tsunami, clashing against the blood waves. However, compared to the old man's blood waves, the tsunami formed from the thousand streams of Aquatic Sword Qis was almost deafening. Additionally, it had a strong and tremendous aura which was more than several times stronger than that of the blood waves.

The tsunami formed from the thousand streams of Aquatic Sword Qis turned into a huge palm and came crushing down toward the front. Just the shock waves, which were formed from the trembling air, were enough to scatter the old man's blood waves with a loud boom.

They were both level 22 Conferred Knights. However, Fang Xingjian's Aquatic Sword Formation was at level 40 while the old man's Myriad Blood Spear was only at level 15. How could they compare?

The old man bellowed wildly, and many blood waves smashed against the huge palm formed from Fang Xingjian's tsunami. The blood waves, which had a pressure of several hundred jin per square meter, were sufficient to crush someone to the extent that it would look like a scene from a car accident. However, they could do nothing against Fang Xingjian's Aquatic Sword Qis.

The many blood waves were shattered and crushed, and eventually, the black-clothed old man was sent flying by the huge palm. He spewed out a large mouthful of blood in midair and had several bones broken.

'Damn it, to think that Fang Xingjian is this powerful? Could it be that he relied on his own abilities to clear the Killing Techniques Palace? He's only 17 years old… How is this possible?'

His eyes continued to stare at Fang Xingjian all the way until he fell to the ground, as if he could not understand how Fang Xingjian could be so much stronger than him.

"Someone who is making a feeble struggle to get to level 22… You aren't even comparable to me when I was at level 20." Fang Xingjian shook his head and said, "Rota, only the academy's second transition jobs and Killing techniques are the true path to great power. Don't follow in his footsteps and take the improper route to learn martial arts from some small sects. It'll just bring harm to both others and yourself."

For the old man, reaching the second transition and level 22 was something he had been the most proud of despite having spent a lot of hard work and hitting the limits of his talent, as well as having to use various secret techniques from the Lijiang Sect. So, how could he tolerate such criticisms from Fang Xingjian?

Particularly, the point about joining small sects struck a nerve with the old man.

When he heard this, he got so angry that he spewed out a large mouthful of blood and almost fainted.

Looking at the completely drenched Old Ancestor lying on the floor, Rota turned to look at Fang Xingjian in astonishment. Fang Xingjian had not been this strong when she last saw him in the Killing Techniques Palace. To think that he could now defeat a level 22 Conferred Knight in a single move…

She had seen Fang Xingjian's performance in the Killing Techniques Palace for herself previously and knew that her clan's Old Ancestor would probably not be a match for Fang Xingjian. This was the reason she had brought him here; it was so she could borrow Fang Xingjian's power to get rid of the Old Ancestor's suppression. However, she had not expected that the Old Ancestor was not even able to receive a single blow from Fang Xingjian.

Then hearing Fang Xingjian's words, Rota's gaze turned serious. When she lifted her head again, she saw that Fang Xingjian had already left and was a distance away.

She shouted out loudly, "Fang Xingjian, I'll definitely not follow in his footsteps! I'll complete the second transition fairly and honestly, break through the Killing Techniques Palace, and then walk right up to you!"

However, her words did not reach Fang Xingjian. The arrival of the old man in black was a sign. If the association's act of informing the Sword Arts Department to conduct their own investigation was to let them understand the situation themselves and make Fang Xingjian surrender voluntarily… Then the old man's arrival would mean that the other party was going to start giving pressure after seeing that the academy and Fang Xingjian were planning to fight it out to the end. Otherwise, how could a second transition level 22 Conferred Knight be so arrogant as to enter the academy as he pleased?

'Are they planning to start from the people around me?'

Fang Xingjian seemed to be able to sense that a formless power had already start to apply pressure toward the Great Western Region and the Great Western City.

Returning to this training room, Fang Xingjian temporarily put aside his troubles. It was pointless to think too much into it for now. The most important thing for him right now was to gain more power. Moreover, the Second Prince's faction would definitely assist in fending off the real source of the pressure.

Therefore, he began undergoing synthesis of the skill seeds in his consciousness. His Aquatic Sword Formation was already at the maximum level of 40, and it was about time for him to merge it together with the Thunder Immuring Earth Sword. Once he succeeded, he would have completed the Killing Techniques Palace's third transformation tier, and he would be even closer toward attaining the final Prodigious Demolition Sword.

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Chapter 324 Synthesis

After Fang Xingjian found that sparkling azure-colored seed, he pushed this skill seed toward the Thunder Immuring Earth Sword. In that instant, he could sense countless information flowing in both directions. However, just as the skill synthesis was about to succeed, there was a loud bang, and the skill seed for the Aquatic Sword Formation shattered completely and exploded. All relevant information to it then disappeared entirely.

Fang Xingjian let out a sigh. If he failed, he could only start cultivating right from the start. Thank goodness he had already done sufficient preparation beforehand. He took a look at the stone wall which was carved with the contents of the Aquatic Sword Qis, as well as the various takeaways and experiences he'd had while cultivating it previously.

After half an hour, a stream of Aquatic Sword Qi rose from Fang Xingjian's palm. He had started to cultivate the Aquatic Sword Formation once again.

He continued his cultivation like this until nighttime. Then Fang Xingjian took a look at the sky, squinted, and said, "It should be about time."

Fang Xingjian and the others had initially tried to look for the three students from that school, who had been found to be suffering from injuries, but they were unable to locate the three students. Therefore, they could only work on strengthening the evidences which supported that the Rebirth Sword Technique did not have a problem.

However, the moment the arbitrators arrived, the three students suddenly appeared. Even their teacher, who could not be located previously, had appeared in Great Western City.

The situation was getting increasingly tense, but there was still no reply from the three people whom he had mailed letters to. This meant Fang Xingjian needed to make his preparations earlier. One thing he could do was look for those three apprentices and find out the real cause of their injuries.

Fang Xingjian had thought of looking into the reason for the injuries since quite a while back, but the students had been in hiding and could not be found. However, now, they were together with the arbitrators and no longer in hiding.

Moreover, what lay behind this matter with the Rebirth Sword Technique was not just a concern on whether the sword technique was good or bad but something which was involved in the fight for power amongst the Empire's upper echelons. Although Fang Xingjian did not like to get involve in such fights, he did not wish to accept everything passively. He preferred to be the one taking the initiative.

Therefore, the information involved was also something which Fang Xingjian wanted to know.

Moreover, Fang Xingjian had absolute confidence with his abilities. Even James had assessed that with Fang Xingjian's sword techniques and the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor, it would be hard to defeat him unless the other party was a level 25 or even level 26 Conferred Knight.

Therefore, while it was still dark, Fang Xingjian left the academy and arrived at the Great Western City like a gust of night breeze.

At this same time, Hoult was in the training room, reading a letter. It was written by his teacher, Laurence, who was a level 29 expert, the disciple of a Divine level expert, and about the same level as the Holy Orison's disciple Yuelun.

'This is what Master and the others have in mind?" Hoult frowned, 'I already felt that the issue with the Rebirth Sword Technique was no longer an academic dispute. As expected, has it already implicated the interests of various top influences?

'However, is it really good to be suppressing it like this?'

Hoult let out a sigh and looked at the letter in his hands, without saying a word.

Regardless, he would have to abide by the instructions written in the letter.

'Once I present this letter from Master during the arbitration and prove the flaw in the Rebirth Sword Technique, Fang Xingjian would go down in ruins, right?'

Although Hoult had always wanted to surpass Fang Xingjian, he had never thought to do so through a method like this. He shook his head, thinking of how a genius, who had created a revolutionary sword technique, was going to be suppressed by everyone just because the sword technique he had created was too outstanding. A feeling of a fox mourning for the death of a hare [1] grew in Hoult's heart.

'It's a pity, Fang Xingjian. You were born in the wrong generation.

'It seems like I won't have a chance to gain a win from you anymore.'

It was because Hoult knew that no matter how hard he worked, it would be impossible for him to gain a win from a dead man.

Somewhere else, Fang Xingjian was walking around in the Great Western City.

Right now, Fang Xingjian did not just excel in sword arts. His attributes were also increasing continuously from the tremendous amount of resources he had.

His attributes had become:

Name Fang Xingjian

Age 17

Occupation Heavenly Sword Sovereign

Level 22

Strength 1158

Agility 2168

Reaction 112

Endurance 88

Flexibility 88

Ether Synchronization Rate 31%

The attributes above come into effect once the Prodigious Astral Divine Powers Waves is activated.

Due to Perfect Muscles, 8 in strength and agility (10% of the endurance attribute).

Skills / Techniques: Boundaries Negation,

Level 40 Rebirth Sword Technique,

Level 40 New Nine-Headed Dragon Sword Technique,

Level 40 Zenith Light Sword Formation,

Ether Sword Ripples,

Level 4 Ether Divine Art,

Level 40 Thunder Immuring Earth Sword,

Level 12 Aquatic Sword Formation,

Level 1 Lightless Sword

Specialties: Genius Swordsmanship,

Elementary Survival Instinct,

Internal Healing,

Internal Training,

Sword Specialist,

Heightened Reflexes,

Perfect Muscles,

Single Sword World Subjugation,

Elementary Berserkness,

Level 1 Unparalleled Sword Intent

Sword Bones,

Swordless Path,

Darkness Sword Sense,

Heavenly Sword Imprint

Waves Level 2 Prodigious Astral Divine Powers Waves

Mental Cultivation Method Level 5 Universal Sword Dominance Lunisolar

Regardless of whether it was his attributes, techniques, or specialties, Fang Xingjian was already comparable to a level 25 Conferred Knight in all aspects with the exception of his ether synchronization rate. This was especially so considering he had the Zenith Light Sword Formation for long-range attacks, Ether Sword Ripples for short-range attacks, Thunder Immuring Earth Sword for support, Boundaries Negation for explosive acceleration, and Terra Ingurgitation for explosive power. The explosive powers he could unleash instantly were incomparable to what a level 25 Conferred Knight would have.

Moreover, Fang Xingjian still had the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor for an ultimate defense, along with the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent he had concealed in his consciousness.

In order to use the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent as well as the Boundaries Negation which required potential points, Fang Xingjian had saved a total of 120,000 potential points. Of course, this would only be sufficient for him to use the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent for one second.

The Heaven's Volition Sword Intent's requirement of 100,000 potential points per second was really too high.

'I wonder if there's anything that can be the sharpening stone for my Heaven's Volition Sword Intent.'

There seemed to be a black line drawn across the night sky as Fang Xingjian arrived at a small valley. Ferdinand was already waiting there.

Ferdinand handed a piece of paper into Fang Xingjian's hand and said, "They are all here now, under the protection of the arbitrators. This time around, the arbitration team includes three Conferred Knights who are all about level 25. Are you sure you're going?"

"To be able to practice the Rebirth Sword Technique until they are suffering from internal injuries, and even to the extent of having internal organ deterioration and being in a life-threatening state… Don't you find it interesting?" Fang Xingjian took a look at the address before crushing the paper lightly. The piece of paper was instantly torn into shreds by his sword Qis.

"Earlier, we hadn't been able to locate them, but since they've appeared, I want to study them carefully."

As Fang Xingjian spoke, Ferdinand only felt that a breeze had passed by, and Fang Xingjian had already disappeared into the night.

Looking at the pitch-black night sky, Ferdinand seemed to recall how Fang Xingjian used to be. 'In just a short year and a half, he has already progressed to this stage.

'Right now, I'll probably not be able to withstand a single glance from him.'

As Ferdinand had given up focusing on his cultivation and made the decision to turn his focus gradually to doing background work, when he saw Fang Xingjian's achievements today, he felt some slight regret.

In Ferdinand's current state, he did not even know when Fang Xingjian had arrived and when he had left.

'My acuity and sensitivity are getting weaker.' Ferdinand pinched his forehead and sighed, 'I hope that I didn't choose the wrong path.'

Fang Xingjian travelled very quickly, and in an instant, he arrived at a big house in the northwest of the city. According to Ferdinand's information, the three students who had sustained serious injuries were now placed here for recovery and safeguarding.

[1] Chinese idiom describing the unhappiness one feels at the death or misfortune of a member of alliance.

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Chapter 325 Sneak In

Fang Xingjian scanned the exterior of the house briefly, and with a flash, he appeared instantly at the back door.

At the same time, on the third story of the building, three youths were laying in their sick beds. They were the three apprentices whose internal organs had deteriorated, and their lives were at risks.

One of the youths was a ghastly pale faced young girl lying down on the bed, with her eyes tightly shut. She wore a pained expression, and big droplets of perspiration were dripping down from her forehead.

Two Conferred Knights dressed in Knight attire stood next to one corner of the bed. One of them, a Conferred Knight with a moustache, looked at the young girl who was gasping for air and crying out in agony. Then he shook his head and said, "The three of them probably won't be able to hang on till the next month."

Next to him, a blue-haired Conferred Knight said, "Their internal organs have completely broken down and are starting to slowly decompose. This method of dying is too painful. Let's go, don't disturb their rest."

The two Conferred Knights both had Heaven's Perception, so it did not matter whether they were in the room or not. They walked out of the room and sat down. The moustached man asked, "Where's Madam Sally? She isn't back yet?"

The blue-haired guy said, "Not yet. She went to investigate the situation of the One Intention Style Dojo."

One Intention Style Dojo was the sword arts faction which was the victim of this case. The Head of the Dojo had gotten three of their more outstanding students to try and pick up the Rebirth Sword Technique after having seen it on the Knight's handbook.

"One Intention Style… They used to be considered as one of the more formidable factions in the Great Western City over ten years ago, right? For the past ten years or so, they have been on the decline," the moustached man said. "But it feels a bit weird that they let three of their most outstanding students to pick up the Rebirth Sword Technique at one go."

"What's so strange about it?" The blue-haired man said, "The state of their decline is too serious, and if they still haven't produced a Knight by next year, even their rights to have access to the Knight's handbook will be cancelled.

"The Head of the Dojo must have believed in the effects of the Rebirth Sword Technique and let their three most outstanding students learn it. They must have been planning to use the excuse that they were putting it on trial and thus wouldn't have to pay any royalties. Then they would let the three students achieve good results in the Prefectural Selection next year."

"But it ended up with all three of them being crippled?" The moustache man's mouth twitched, "They are really unlucky."

The two of them were second-in-command to Sally and had also been sent by the Knight Association. They were tasked with the job of assisting Sally in this arbitration.

However, compared to young Sally who was not even 30 years old, both the moustached man and the blue-haired man had exceeded 40 years of age and were level 24 Conferred Knights. They belong to the group that formed the core strength of the Conferred Knights.

Just as they were talking, a middle-aged lady walked over. The lady's face was covered in wrinkles, and she was wearing clothes made from coarse cloth. Under the light, she appeared very uneasy as she spoke timidly and nervously, "I… I think we should let it go this time around. Can we stop the arbitration?"

This married commoner lady was clearly the mother of one of the three apprentices. After hearing her question, the two Conferred Knights exchanged a glance. In the end, the moustached man was the one who said, "Don't worry. We represent the Knight Association. No one would dare to take revenge on you."

"But… but I heard that Fang Xingjian is a once-in-a-thousand-years genius in the Great Western Region. I've even read his book before. Someone like this… How can we afford to go against someone like this?" The lady clenched her fists tightly, appearing increasingly nervous and hesitant.

When the moustached man saw the lady behaving like this, he explained patiently, "Don't worry about Fang Xingjian. We're all level 24 Conferred Knights who have skipped through the Regional Academy and gone through tough training at the Knight Association in the central.

"You might have heard of our names before. I am Heaven-Shaking Sword, Potter." He pat his back, and a huge sword over two meters long let out a clanking sound.

Then he pointed to the blue-haired man next to him and said, "This is Baroque Sword, Marcus. Fang Xingjian is but a Conferred Knight who has just completed his job transition recently. With us around, he won't be able to lay his hands on you. Don't worry."

Since the arbitration was for the Rebirth Sword Technique, the three arbitrators were naturally people who cultivated sword arts.

Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter and Baroque Sword Marcus were Conferred Knights who both had quite a reputation even in the central.

Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter, had slashed through the clouds with his huge sword and stopped a storm, placing the flood disaster under control.

Baroque Sword, Marcus, had once thrust with his sword for ten minutes and blocked off a horde of ferocious beasts which had surrounded the city, saving several tens of thousands of lives in the process.

The two of them had even become the best partners and worked together to settle various cases involving Knights. Three years ago, they had even worked together and headed to the northern country to arrest a level 24 Conferred Knight who had defected and escaped to the north. They had successfully brought the convict back to the Imperial Capital even though they had been chased all the way by the assassins from the north.

Although the woman was a commoner, she had also heard of their achievements before. After hearing these, she finally felt a bit more assured. However, she still spoke with a slightly frightened tone, "But rumor has it that there is a great person like the Second Prince backing up Fang Xingjian. What if the prince is angered by our actions? What would we do then?"

Seeing that the woman seemed as if she was about to cry, the blue-haired Marcus said impatiently, "Alright, don't think too much into these things. We, the Knight Association, will enforce the law fairly. Even if the prince himself has committed a crime, he would be dealt in the same way as a commoner.

"If it's really proven that Fang Xingjian's Rebirth Sword Technique has caused the deterioration of the practitioners' internal organs, then even the Second Prince won't be able to save him."

As he said that, he waved his hand to signal for the woman to return home quickly.

After the woman left, the moustached man, Potter, said, "Why did you have to be so harsh? This lady is now very nervous and frightened. You should have explained it to her properly."

The blue-haired Marcus replied, "She's just a commoner. Frankly speaking, no matter whether she's infuriated, nervous, worried, or feeling any other emotions, it would be useless."

"Your mind is in a mess right now?" Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter asked.

"Isn't it the same for you?" Baroque Sword Marcus let out a sigh and said, "Although Fang Xingjian is talented, he hasn't been able to turn that into his battle prowess. What's scary are the people behind him. Have you felt it in the time we've been in the Great Western City?"

"It's hard to take even a single step." Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter frowned and said, "It's as if every place we go to and everything that we do are being under surveillance. Even this house was something which took us so much effort to get, let alone the various attitudes we've been receiving on the way. Moreover, we haven't even met James and Governor Devitt."

"Additionally, don't you think that the implications of this case are very deep? We're both sword arts cultivators, and at the very least, in terms of the sword theories, the Rebirth Sword Technique will definitely not result in one suffering from the deterioration of the internal organs. By right, a case like this should have its news shut off before we investigate the case carefully. However, with the publicity it has been given, it's to the extent that we're almost fighting against the Great Western Region Regional Academy. It's obvious that someone wants to end this swiftly and ruthlessly, preventing all organizations from studying the Rebirth Sword Technique."

Saying that, the Heaven-Shaking Sword let out a sigh and continued, "Right now, the case with the Rebirth Sword Technique has already gained the attention of all the Empire's upper echelons. For such a case, only the three of us have been sent here. Especially Sally… Although she is quite talented, she is too young and too inexperienced."

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Chapter 326 Collision

"You sensed it too?" Baroque Sword, Marcus, said, "You should understand that if the Rebirth Sword Technique is real, then it may change the entire Empire's—no, the entire world's way of cultivating. For such a thing to appear, what do you think…"

"That's enough." When Baroque Sword said up to this point, the Heaven-Shaking Sword felt as if all the hairs on his body were standing up.

If the Rebirth Sword Technique was real, then what impact would it bring to the martial prowess of the entire world? If it was real, then what was going to happen to the Nurturing techniques from the other factions? What was going to happen to those powerful experts who had signed contracts to publish their Nurturing techniques for royalties?

Additionally, from the point of the government, for them to face the people from the lower levels as well as the Knights and Knight apprentices who were going to get a huge leap in their powers… What would the government think?

Thinking of all these, Marcus was drenched in cold sweat. He had really gotten himself involved in a extremely big whirlpool.

However, what he could not understand was why the management had only sent them, a level 24 and a level 25 Conferred Knight, to handle such a big case. What on earth were they planning?

The two of them did not know what to do. It was because till now, they had yet to receive any orders and did not know what the management was partial toward.

The management had tasked Sally with this job. By sending someone who was easily swayed by her emotions but was also righteous, it seemed to be a way for them to express their attitude to this case too.

Just as the two of them were deep in thought, Fang Xingjian's voice rang out from the staircase.

"So, that's the case. The two of you don't know the actual situation either?"

"Who's there?!"

With a loud bellow, Baroque Sword Marcus and Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter both looked in Fang Xingjian's direction. Pitter patter explosive sounds rang out in the air, and the walls in the surroundings seemed to have been struck by air explosions as a massive area of cracks appeared on them.

With just a slight agitation of the Reduced Force Fields of those two people, it seemed as if they were going to tear the whole house down.

A woman's scream filled the air, and the woman, who came to ask questions earlier, dashed to Baroque Sword's side and asked, "What's wrong? What happened?"

Baroque Sword said in a low voice, "If you don't wish to die, then don't move recklessly!"

The two Conferred Knights looked at Fang Xingjian and asked, "Who are you?"

"Me? Am I not the person you guys are investigating this time around?" Fang Xingjian walked slowly toward the two Conferred Knights, as though he was taking a leisure stroll in the garden.

The countenances of the two Conferred Knights turned grim as they glared at Fang Xingjian and asked, "Fang Xingjian? Why have you come here? The arbitration is going to start in three days. What are you thinking of doing?"

Fang Xingjian stopped at the boundaries of their Reduced Force Fields and spoke with indifference, "Don't be nervous. I'm only here to look at the three brats who have gotten injured and to find out the reason why they've gotten injured."

The Heaven-Shaking Sword said coldly, "You can leave. There's no way that we'll let you meet them."

Just then, the middle-aged woman's expression turned into that of madness. She looked at Fang Xingjian and said while trembling, "You! You're Fang Xingjian! What are you trying to do? Are you here to kill us?"

Fang Xingjian frowned, threw a glance at this woman, and asked, "Who is she?"

"She is a family member of one of the victims," the Heaven-Shaking Sword replied. "Marcus, bring Madam Dailey back. I alone will be sufficient to handle this."

The middle-aged woman called Madam Dailey was almost on the verge of a breakdown. Tears gushed out from her eyes endlessly, and she shouted at Fang Xingjian, "Fang Xingjian! Haven't you done enough harm to my son? You're still thinking of killing him?

"I beg of you, let us off. We won't go through with the arbitration anymore."

Baroque Sword Marcus shook his head, speechless at this extremely self-contradictory woman. He lifted her up with one arm and brought her out of this place.

Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter shook his head and looked at Fang Xingjian, saying, "Mister Fang, why are you in a daze? Can it be that you want me to send you off personally?"

Fang Xingjian did not say a word, but with a stretch of his five fingers, a stream of Aquatic Sword Qi turned into an aquatic sword which he held in his hand. "I wasn't in a daze. It's just that I have too many ways of defeating you that I'm having some trouble choosing which method to use."

"Hmph," Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter let out a cold snort. Then he drew out his huge sword, which was over two meters tall, and said while clenching his teeth, "Arrogant brat! My level is higher than yours, and my killing experience is a hundred times of yours. I've also participated in more battles than the amount of rice you've eaten. How are you going to win against me? You better return quickly. I don't want to find myself in trouble after I've beaten you up."

"No matter how much battle experience a weakling has, it's just the battle experience against weaklings." As Fang Xingjian said this, he had already appeared suddenly behind Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter, sending out over ten streams of Ether Sword Ripples.

How fast was Fang Xingjian's current speed? He had an agility attribute of 224 points, and once he activated both Single Sword World Subjugation and Boundaries Negation, he would exceed 15 times that of supersonic speed.

The Ether Sword Ripples could unleash an attack which was 2.5 times that of Fang Xingjian's strength. After receiving the job progress he gained from completing the job transition as well as all the training he had been through, Fang Xingjian's strength attribute was already at 123 points which the average level of a low tiered Conferred Knight.

The Heaven-Shaking Sword was not able to react to the Ether Sword Ripples which were sweeping out toward him with 15 times that of supersonic speed. So, he was sent flying backward, covered in blood all over.

Although Potter appeared to be bleeding a lot, Fang Xingjian had avoided his fatal points. To the Heaven-Shaking Sword who was a Conferred Knight, the wounds were merely superficial injuries.

Potter rolled on the ground, let out a loud bellow, and slowly swelled up as if he were in a hyperemic state. He then lifted up his huge sword and was about to dash toward Fang Xingjian.

Just then, Fang Xingjian appeared right before Potter, and an aquatic sword went through a hair's breadth sized gap in Potter's movements, piercing into him and touching his heart. The Heaven-Shaking Sword did not dare to move an inch as he sensed the feeling of the sword Qi right on his heart.

Then Fang Xingjian loosened his hands, and the aquatic sword formed from Aquatic Sword Qis turned into a ball wrapped around the Heaven-Shaking Sword's heart.

Fang Xingjian spoke softly next to Heaven-Shaking Sword's ear, "Stay still. I don't wish to kill anyone today."

The Heaven-Shaking Sword's face was flushed red. To think that he was defeated so easily without even being able use 10% of his powers… Potter was completely overwhelmed by embarrassment and fury.

However, just then, another loud bang rang out. Fang Xingjian turned and looked in the direction of the sound. He saw that Baroque Sword Marcus was lying on the ground, while Madam Dailey was slowly drawing out a dagger from his body.

She laughed, "Thank goodness this guy isn't level 25 yet. Otherwise it'll be troublesome if he were to regenerate. He wouldn't be lying there so quietly like how he is doing now."

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Chapter 327 Receiving An Attack

When Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter saw this scene, it was as if his eyes were going to pop out. He bellowed furiously, "You b*tch, let him go!"

"Oh? Why do I have to let him go? And shouldn't you be more worried for yourself?" The female assassin replied with a smile.

Fang Xingjian said, "You're planning on framing me after killing them?"

In this instant, Fang Xingjian finally understood some things. Why was it that the other party had only sent level 25 and level 24 Knights here? It was because the other party had never planned on discussing about sword theories with him, nor were they planning on reasoning it out with him.

It had been like that when the Old Ancestor from Rota's Clan had approached him, and it was the same with this woman before him now. He could imagine that more pressure would gush forth after killing the person before him.

Hearing Fang Xingjian's words, the woman smiled and said, "As expected of the Great Western Region's great genius to be able to understand it so quickly. I had only planned on staying next to them at the start, but since you've come here by yourself, it must mean that your talk with Old Black has fallen through.

"Since that is the case, then I can only let you bear the crime of treason for killing and fleeing."

If it were really as what this woman planned… for her to kill the Heaven-Shaking Sword and the Baroque Sword, and then shift the blame to Fang Xingjian… then the opposing party would win the arbitration without even having to put up a fight. Putting aside what would happen to the Rebirth Sword Technique, even Fang Xingjian would be labelled a criminal. They would have perfectly avoided any discussions on the sword technique itself.

The female assassin drew out the dagger from Baroque Sword's back and stepped on his body, but he didn't show any signs of movements.

Her dagger then pierced directly through Baroque Sword's heart and then twisted around to destroy his entire chest, causing the Conferred Knight to die completely before he could even show any bit of a reaction.

It did not matter how strong the level 24 Conferred Knight's vitality was. Even if he was like a monster when compared to ordinary people, there was no way Baroque Sword would have survived when his entire chest was destroyed like that.

When Heaven-Shaking Sword saw this scene, he gritted his teeth and said coldly, "Fang Xingjian, let me go. I'll join forces with you to capture this b*tch."

The female assassin laughed and said, "Do you really think that the two of you have a chance of winning against me?" After saying this, her face changed slightly to reveal the face of an extremely beautiful lady with a sweet smile. Even her figure and height went through a transformation, turning into the figure of a model with 1.8 meters in height.

She looked completely different from the middle-aged woman she had appeared to be just before.

"Transfiguration? You're a level 25 Conferred Knight?" Heaven-Shaking Sword's face sank as he felt a tremendous pressure pressing down on him.

Level 25 Conferred Knights were able to see the existences of cells through Heaven's Perception. With that as a foundation, they were able to transfigure their own body and obtain various unbelieveable powers, causing the prowess of their Killing techniques to increase once again.

The damaging prowess and vitality of a level 25 Conferred Knight crushed those of a level 24 Conferred Knight overwhelmingly.

When the lady heard how astonished Potter was, she laughed, "That's right. Now, do you guys think that you still have hope?"

She turned to Fang Xingjian and said, "How is it? Fang Xingjian, this time, the matter has implications that far surpass what you imagined. There's no way that you'll be able to win. If you were to surrender now, you can return to the Imperial Capital with me. There'll be an even more outstanding job waiting for you."

Fang Xingjian asked, "You people think that you can stop the Rebirth Sword Technique?"

The beautiful lady let out a cold laugh and said, "Why, do you feel that you're really innocent and that we're really evil? Do you think that your Rebirth Sword Technique is something that will push the progress of society? You're too childish. You don't understand anything at all.

"The Rebirth Sword Technique will make everyone in the world stronger. Based on the central government's estimation, if the Rebirth Sword Technique is allowed to be disseminated, then in the future, any random person's average attributes would exceed 15 points.

"Do you know what kind of concept that is? This would mean that any random person in the streets would be able to lift up a horse carriage, break down walls, cross over walls and roofs, and tear apart beasts like tigers and leopards with just their hands.

"A society like this would be in complete chaos. After everyone gains immense power, they would release the devils in their hearts, and they wouldn't have any fear for the ordinary military troops and the City Guards Institutions. The bandits and rebel influences would grow rapidly, and it could even result in various factions forming their own individual empire. What your Rebirth Sword Technique will bring about is not progress for the society but world chaos and war. It would be the source of disasters."

"Is that so? This is what you guys think?"

"Isn't that the case?" The lady shook her head and looked at Fang Xingjian pitifully. "If you understand how serious this is, you should also understand that it is impossible for the entire Empire's upper echelons to let you continue promoting your Rebirth Sword Technique. There's no future for you.

"Unless you're think of going up against the entire world."

"The entire world?" Fang Xingjian laughed coldly and said, "Can you people represent the entire world?"

"The country is ruled by those in power. The Empire's upper echelons represent the country's will. And right now, you're going up against the will of the entire country. If this were to go on, there's no other options for you except to be completely crushed."

Fang Xingjian did not reply, but he suddenly thought of the Italian philosopher, Bruno [1, who had been burned at the stakes for upholding the heliocentric theory. Back then, the Roman Catholic Church had wanted to defend their own interests in a similar manner.

Although Fang Xingjian's situation was not exactly the same as Bruno's, there were some similarities.

'Has this guy blanked out?'

Seeing that Fang Xingjian seemed to be thinking about things and had clearly blanked out, the female assassin's gaze changed. She did not miss the opportunity to make her move.

There was no sound of the wind, nor any trembling or whistling in the air. Before any sounds were transmitted to the human ear, the lady had already appeared before Fang Xingjian. She thrusted out the dagger she was holding with the same rapid speed, aiming for Fang Xingjian's heart.

This thrust was not an ordinary one. The dagger contained the weaving of over a hundred types of energy. Once a person was struck, he would explode like a lit explosive.

In the lady's eyes, it appeared as if she had made simple running and charging movements. However, to Heaven-Shaking Sword, it was just an afterimage which had flashed by.

'I've succeeded!'

The female assassin was very clear on just how fast she was at her full acceleration speed. This thrust was at 12 times that of supersonic speed, which was the equivalent of moving across several kilometers in the blink of an eye.

Right now, she was only one palm's distance away from Fang Xingjian. It was impossible for him to fend her off now.

However, just as this thought ran through her mind, a finger pressed gently against the tip of her dagger.

Fang Xingjian, with his Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor, stopped this thrust with just a gentle tap of his finger.

In the next moment, strong gales blew and sword Qis ran amok. Sparks appeared in the air due to the friction created from the high speed, and shock waves smashed large holes in the walls around them. Even the roof of the entire building was blown off.

All these were just from the residual impact of the 20 streams of Ether Sword Ripples which slashed against the female assassin's body.

[1] Giordano Bruno, an Italian Dominican friar, philosopher, mathematician, poet, and cosmological theorist. https/en./wiki/Giordano_Bruno

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Chapter 328 Flee

The woman was slashed and sent flying into the sky by the twenty streams of Ether Sword Ripples. The area where she was slashed released explosive booms, but there were no traces of blood at all. It was as if her body was not made of flesh but metal.

"Fang Xingjian, be careful. She is at level 25 with an ether synchronization rate of over 60%. Under the situation where she modifies her physical body, she can make her specialties more compact. Right now, her body is practically no different from a Superior Divine Weapon!"

Fang Xingjian frowned slightly. He could sense that there were streams of auras emerging from her body, one after another. Over 20 streams of aura emerged from her body, rising up like smoke signals soaring up into the sky.

In the surrounding space, about 30 waves were gushing toward her body.

As these auras creeped out, the aura Fang Xingjian felt from her suddenly increased by many times.

The female assassin even stopped in mid-air, stepping in the air as though it was as easy as on flat land. She smiled coldly and said, "Fang Xingjian, it's true that your abilities are slightly beyond my expectations. It seems like Conferred Knights who are below level 25 won't be able to deal with you anymore.

"However, you still don't understand how strong a level 25 Conferred Knight can be.

"When a Conferred Knight reaches level 21, they can see the emotions of others through brain waves.

"At level 22, the Conferred Knight can see sound waves and light waves, as well as possess their own powerful observational skills.

"At level 23, they can decipher the prowess of the heavenly thunders and that of the terrestrial magnetism. They can also borrow the power from thunderbolts to temper their physical body, greatly increasing their body's strength to the extent that they can even be able to float in the air.

"At level 24, they can see the radiation of all things as well as directly absorb the energy released by ether particles and store them. This would allow the prowess of one's Killing technique to be increased greatly.

"However, your talent is too outstanding, and it totally removes the gap that you should have compared to a level 24 Conferred Knight in terms of the body's strength and the prowess of Killing technique.

"However, level 25 is a completely different thing altogether. Conferred Knights at this stage would be able to control the finest detail in their bodies. It wouldn't just be a simple transformation of the body. We would also be capable of condensing our specialty seeds.

"In our consciousness, we can synthesize skill seeds, but the specialty seeds in our physical body can allow our body to continue to evolve.

"There are 1,440 internal specialties and 9,270 external specialties. Each specialty we condense will become a specialty seed which will develop one's new potential for the body. At this stage, from the point in which we became level 25 Conferred Knights, our bodies had already far surpassed yours. We're slowly moving from humans to becoming gods."

As she spoke, the lady tossed out her dagger and then pressed her five fingers together, as if her hand had already become the sharpest blade. At the next moment, a loud explosive sound rang out under her feet. She stomped into the air, causing an explosion, and charged out toward Fang Xingjian.

Fang Xingjian was very clear on the power of specialties. After all, he had over ten specialties, and they had greatly strengthened his body and sword arts.

There were various specialties which could greatly increase the human body's power, agility, reaction, flexibility, and endurance attributes.

However, the 50 streams of auras coming out from the lady's body contained over 50 specialty seeds. How terrifying would the body of a person like that be?

In this moment, both her displayed agility and strength had far exceeded 200 points.

Just in terms of her physical attributes, she was even stronger than Kirst's Headmaster whom Fang Xingjian had encountered in the past. This lady was a Conferred Knight who had focused fully on cultivating her own body and did not care about any other aspects.

The air within a hundred meter radius seemed to have been split into two with her dash.

Her palm seemed to have turned into a lance which could pierce through everything. It thrusted toward Fang Xingjian's chest. However, before it hit, her body was struck by another 50 streams of Ether Sword Ripples, and she was sent flying out with a loud bang.

Remaining in mid-air, the female assassin laughed out loud. "Fang Xingjian, it's useless. My body has been thoroughly trained and tempered. There's no way that you can win."

She lifted her leg up high and smashed it down as if it was a battle axe. Layers of air exploded, sending ripples and air currents splattering. Amidst the tremendous gales, even rows of trees in the surroundings were sent flying. Over ten horse carriages along the streets were blasted off as well.

The Killing technique, Comet Descent, unleashed a kick with a strength which was more than ten times of what the user had. It was a kick which was said to be capable of kicking down even meteors.

However, although Fang Xingjian was confronted with this kick coming down toward him, his expression remained the same. With a tap of his finger, this time around, 100 streams of Ether Sword Ripples soared up simultaneously, colliding again the female assassin's Comet Descent.

There was an explosive boom, like 10,000 kilograms worth of gunpowder had exploded, and the female assassin felt as if her body had collided against a speeding aircraft carrier. The agility and strength she had always been proud of were of no use at all in this instant.

"How can this be possible? What kind of power is this?"

Fresh blood spurted out from all over her body, and she landed on the ground with a loud bang.

The lady looked at Fang Xingjian in disbelief. "What skill was that? Why did it have such a tremendous prowess?"

Fang Xingjian walked up slowly and said, "If not for the fact that I wanted to capture you alive, you would have been dead a long time ago. Compared to the level 25 Conferred Knights I had encountered in the past, you're far too weak.

"If it's as you said, that those who are strong represent the country's will, then if I'm stronger than you, would that mean that I'll be more capable of representing this country?"

Aside from the fact that this female assassin had a stronger physical body, in comparison to Huang Lin and the level 26 Kirst Academy's Headmaster whom Fang Xingjian had sparred with in the past, she was weaker in all other aspects.

Hearing Fang Xingjian's words, the lady understood it immediately. The reason Fang Xingjian had increased the prowess of his attacks gradually was because he had been testing her limits so as to capture her alive.

Of course, it was also because Fang Xingjian was currently far too powerful. He had a strength attribute of 123 points and Ether Sword Ripples which had the effect of 2.5 times his strength. With each additional Ether Sword Ripple he released, it was an additional slash which was 2.5 times that of his strength.

The 100 streams of Ether Sword Ripples from earlier was an attack which was the equivalent of 250 times that of Fang Xingjian's strength. This was why he could defeat the female assassin easily.

The female assassin looked at Fang Xingjian with a complicated expression. "To think that I'd actually lose to you…"

At the next moment, she leaped up, and with a slight movement, she escaped up to 100 meters away. At level 25, her vitality and recovery abilities were far too powerful. After taking a slight rest within the time of a few breaths, she had already recovered 80% of her battle prowess and once again unleashed her full prowess in a bid to escape.

The lady dashed out like that, and after a few consecutive bang bang bang bang, she had knocked through over ten layers of walls, bringing up dust and sand. Then in the blink of an eye, she reappeared on the streets several hundreds of meters away.

A Conferred Knight's movement speed was much too fast. It was not something which Knights could compare with. A single dash tended to bring them several hundred or even several thousand meters away.

However, in the next moment, a sword plunged down from the sky, slashing toward her head.

That was fast! Fang Xingjian had already caught up! How could he be so fast?! However, the female assassin did not have the time to think about these. She let out a loud bellow, and her body seemed to inflate with air as it swelled up. Then her right leg raised up high and clashed against the sword's edge, creating a perception as if it was going to hold up the world.

This was the kickboxing style Killing technique, Heaven's Support. It tapped into the spinning force of the world to fight off opponents attacking down. Heaven's Support was said to be a kickboxing art which would be able to support the skies even if it were to come crashing down.

However, the moment the sword's blade and the bottom of her foot came into contact, the female assassin felt as if this sword was even heavier than the sky.

This was the explosive force from 150 streams of Ether Sword Ripples which was 375 times that of Fang Xingjian's strength.

The female assassin let out a blood-curdling cry as one of her feet was chopped off.

Then as her blood splattered out, the lady's face was filled with astonishment and terror. However, she still managed to dash a few kilometers away in the blink of an eye at the supersonic speed of over 3,000 meters per second.

Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter saw this scene the moment he came out to chase them. He then heard Fang Xingjian saying in a soft voice, "You stay here. If other Conferred Knights were to come, tell them what happened."

As Fang Xingjian spoke, he brought a gush of white-colored air currents and dashed out, sweeping across the Great Western City like a supersonic combat aircraft.

Not long after Fang Xingjian left, a few other silhouettes came down. Their auras were like the deep abyss in the sea, causing Heaven-Shaking Sword to almost want to prostrate himself before them.

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Chapter 339 [1] Meeting

In a pitch-black mountain cave on the outskirts of Great Western City, about 30 kilometers away, over a hundred fire torches were lit up.

A level 29 Conferred Knight who was on the third tier amongst level 29 Conferred Knights, the man with the reputation of Sword Saint, was standing in the cave with a cold expression, looking at another three second transition Conferred Knights.

"Speak up. Why have you asked to meet me here for?" Sasa looked coldly at a fatty who had a height of over two meters, but whose weight was definitely over 500 jin. "Gargantuan God Gao Tu, you should have long died in jail."

Gao Tu, who was being addressed as Gargantuan God, laughed and spoke as he gnawed on a chicken drumstick, "Hehe, Sasa, don't you understand? A second transition character is still considered a treasure after all. So how could the people above let us die so easily? They can't help but want to squeeze us completely dry."

Sasa looked at him coldly and said, "Gargantuan God Gao Tu, Westerner, the number one expert in Gargantuan Spirit Sect. However, ten years ago, you rebelled against Gargantuan Spirit Sect and killed all 1,200 members of Gargantuan Spirit Sect. From then on, you became a murderer, killing over 10,000 people and having even killed three Conferred Knights. You were eventually arrested by the Knight Association and given a death penalty.

"However, there were also rumors that you had been bought over by The School of Sword Arts. It turns out to be the truth."

"As expected of the Sword Saint." Gao Tu clapped his oily hands and said, "Since you know that I have been sent by The School of Sword Arts, then there shouldn't be a need for me to explain too much, right? Since you were the one who had started this, then you'll need to be the one to end this."

Sasa's eyes narrowed as if streams of sword light were gleaming in them. The other party clearly knew that he was the one who had sent someone to report to the association that the Rebirth Sword Technique had caused internal injuries to its practitioners. This meant that he was the one who had taken the first step, giving everyone else an excuse to set things in motion.

Sasa coldly replied, "I don't understand what you mean." He was, of course, willing to be the one to start the ball rolling, since it would help prevent Fang Xingjian from deciphering the dragon's scale, thus allowing him to beat Fang Xingjian to solving the profound mysteries behind the dragon's scale.

However, letting him be the one to bring closure to the case would mean that he would be going up against Great Western Region's Governor Devitt, against Head of Department James, and against Sword Tower's Hoppes all by himself. How could he be foolish enough to let himself end up as cannon fodder?

Right now, the people from the upper echelon had yet to send any powerful characters for this case. This were showing how sneaky they were. No one wanted to openly go against the three local influences.

After three whole generations of management by Governor Devitt and James who was the Governor from two terms back, the entire Great Western Region was built as strong as steel. Who would be willing to take them head-on?

Naturally, Sword Saint Sasa was unwilling as well.

However, Gao Tu let out a maniacal laugh and said, "Who do you think sent me? This order came from the Supreme Chief. If you were to refuse, then we'll first leak the news that you were the one who submitted the report to the association. You'll also become the enemy of The School of Sword Arts. Think through this carefully, Sword Saint."

Gao Tu placed additional emphasis on the words 'Sword Saint', as if full of sarcasm and provocation.

Sasa looked at the fat pig before him, while doing his best to suppress his fury. Gao Tu was but a level 25 Conferred Knight and, theoretically, Sasa would be able to kill him with just a few slashes of his sword. However, he did not dare to do so. It was because of The School of Sword Arts, and because of the words 'Supreme Chief'.

The second transition experts in The School of Sword Arts were split into several posts, starting with the lowest level Elder, then the Envoy, the Adviser, and ending with the Supreme Chief, who sat at the very top.

The School of Sword Arts' Supreme Chief was the strongest swordsman in the entire school, and was also the one who held the greatest power over the school.

The current Supreme Chief of The School of Sword Arts was called Heng Tianxiao and was an individual at the pinnacle of the Empire in terms of sword arts. Although he was not at the Divine level, he was in the first tier amongst those of level 29. He was said to have somehow been able to manage to spar with the First Prince and he was known as the God of Sword Arts by the disciples of The School of Sword Arts.

Even Sasa did not dare to easily offend someone like that. Moreover, Heng Tianxiao was just a representative. Who knew who exactly Heng Tianxiao's supporter was, and how many people were backing him up?

Sasa said calmly, "Devitt, James, and Hoppes. If the three of them attack together, it would be impossible for me to suppress Fang Xingjian and the Rebirth Sword Technique."

"Don't worry, you'll just have to appear." Gao Tu laughed and handed Sasa a letter. "This is Supreme Chief's assessment of the Rebirth Sword Technique. You'll need to bring it out during the arbitration.

"When the time comes, the people from the Myriad Star Palace will also take action. Fang Xingjian has no hope.

"On the government's side, the First Prince has already done the necessary preparations."

Myriad Star Palace? When Sasa heard these three words, his heart leaped. If 'The School of Sword Arts' was the peak in the sword arts domain, then Myriad Star Palace was an even scarier influence with the existence of the Divine level expert, Astral Ancestor.

With The School of Sword Arts, Myriad Star Palace, and the First Prince wanting to suppress Fang Xingjian, then even Devitt, James, and Hoppes would be unable to do anything.

Gao Tu continued, "You're still hesitating? Hehe, after we've banned the Rebirth Sword Technique, the Myriad Star Palace, The School of Sword Arts and the Ancient Path of Hell (Royal Sect) will work together to invent a new sword technique, specially provided for the three sects to cultivate. Do you wish to be one of the creators of this sword technique and to leave your name behind in history?"

When Sasa heard this, he was slightly taken aback. He felt disappointed in the plan the three major sects were plotting.

'They are planning to first attack Fang Xingjian and the Rebirth Sword Technique, banning everyone from cultivating it, and then change the appearance of the Rebirth Sword Technique to be disseminated within their sects?

'With that, not only would their businesses in imparting martial techniques not be affected, their sects would also be greatly powered up.

'The gap in strength between those in the upper echelon and those in the lower echelon would increase, and the Royal family's control over the lower echelon would be more stable as well.

'As expected… They are more than ten times more cunning than me. They are truly very vicious.'

However, Sasa then immediately thought of how each sect would definitely send a representative to be one of those who had invented this 'new sword technique'. If he could be included, with the effect of the Rebirth Sword Technique, he would be able to make a name for himself in history.

'They are really keeping all the benefits for themselves. But… I like their way of doing things.'

Gao Tu impatiently asked, "So how is it? You can agree to it now, right?"

Sasa shrugged, "I don't seem to have a choice, do I?" With the three great factions joining forces, Sasa really had no option to reject.

After handing the letter to Sasa and watching as the Sword Saint left, a thin man next to Gao Tu spoke up, "Boss Gao, this guy won't try to go back on his word and give us the slip, right?"

"Do you think he would dare to do so?" Gao Tu laughed coldly and said, "The School of Sword Arts, Myriad Star Palace, and the First Prince. If any of these influential people wished to crush him, it wouldn't be any harder than killing a dog.

"With him taking the lead, if anything were to happen in the future, there'll be someone who can act as the scapegoat."

Not long after their discussion, the female assassin dashed into the cave, covered in blood, collapsing to the ground.

"What's wrong, Rakshasi [2]? Why have you been inflicted with such serious injuries?"

The female assassin called Rakshasi still had her mind filled by Fang Xingjian's last sword attack on replay. "It's impossible to fend off… There's no way to fend off at all."

[1] Translator's note: No, I did not make a mistake with the numbering of the chapter. There are NO chapters 329-338. The author must have made a mistake with the numbering of the chapters (or so I assume. I didn't ask). And since the numbers flow properly from chapter 339 onward, we shall keep to what the author has them as.

[2] Nickname of the female assassin. A Rakshasa (Sanskrit: rākṣasa) is a mythological being in Hindu mythology, and a female rakshasa is known as a rakshasi. https/en./wiki/Rakshasa

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Chapter 340 Pursue (Part I)

"You're saying that even though you initiated an attack with that Heaven's Support Kick of yours, you were no match for his sword slash, and even your foot was chopped off?"

Gao Tu frowned and looked at Rakshasi, asking, "Based on our information, Fang Xingjian is only level 22 at most. How is it possible that you weren't even able to take on a sword attack of his?"

Rakshasi touched her regenerated foot which had skin that was like a baby's. This showed the strong vitality of a level 25 Conferred Knight. Moreover, she had the specialty, High Speed Regeneration, which had allowed her to grow out her foot again.

However, she was unable to conceal the shock in her eyes. "I was truly unable to take on that attack. I stimulated all the specialty seeds in my body and even used the Heaven's Support Kick to tap into the powers of the earth's circulation. Even if a big building were to come crashing down… with this attack, I'd have the confidence of crushing the building into pieces.

"However, when Fang Xingjian's sword attack came crashing down, it felt as if the skies were really crashing down. There was no power that could fend it off."

Gao Tu frowned and said, "I heard that Fang Xingjian has a sword technique which allows him to absorb and make use of gravity. Could it be this move?"

Rakshasi shook her head. "No, I didn't sense any changes to the gravity."

Just then, the entire cave started tremoring furiously. It was as if many tremendous surging forces had descended from the sky, causing shattered rocks to fall down everywhere.

Rakshasi looked toward the outside of the cave while feeling great hatred. "He has really come chasing after me. Boss Gao, you guys must avenge me!"

Rakshasi was not an idiot. Of course, she knew that the reason Fang Xingjian had given chase was so that he could find her accomplices. However, she was more confident that with the help of her companions, she would definitely be able to turn the tables and teach Fang Xingjian a good lesson.

Gao Tu frowned slightly. He did not really wish to step out at this moment to catch Fang Xingjian. This was because they would be able to ban the Rebirth Sword Technique and thus reduce the number of practitioners for this sword technique only by letting Fang Xingjian appear at the arbitration and, subsequently, get crushed by those in power.

Rakshasi's reckless actions had already made Gao Tu very dissatisfied. Moreover, he did not wish to deal with Fang Xingjian yet.

Therefore, he looked at the two other Conferred Knights next to him and asked, "Would he be able to enter here?"

That two Conferred Knights were each encompassed by a grey colored robe, looking very much like statues. When Gao Tu posed the question to them, they lifted their heads at the same time, revealing two identical faces. They were both bald and eyebrowless, and they had the same snake-shaped tattoo on the left side of their face.

The twins, Zhang Zuo and Zhang You, [1] were both level 24 Conferred Knights, but neither Gao Tu nor Rakshasi dared to underestimate them.

This was because the twins of them had been connected by their thoughts since young. It was said that they both used the same consciousness and would even be able to synthesize two skills which they had each cultivated separately. They also excelled in willpower impacts and related Killing techniques.

However, because they had failed the Heavenly Barrier when they tried for level 25, they were both a bit crazy. This was the greater reason why Rakshasi and Gao Tu were wary against them.

No one would be willing to fight against lunatics who were unafraid of death.

When they heard Gao Tu's question, Zhang Zuo said, "We've channelled information into the grass, trees, and rocks outside to set up an illusionary formation. There's no way that he'll be able to get in."

Rakshasi gritted her teeth and said, "Are we going to hide from him?" Although Fang Xingjian's battle prowess was beyond her expectation, there were four Conferred Knights here. So, how could she possibly still be afraid of him?

"We can go out, subdue him, and bring him back to the headquarters. If he can't attend the arbitration the day after, he'll have lost without putting up a fight."

"Idiot," Gao Tu reprimanded, "Why do you think that the people from the higher management prepared so much? If capturing Fang Xingjian will work, they would have done so long ago. Our goal is to make it such that majority of the people will not cultivate or study the Rebirth Sword Technique.

"Just wait here, don't take action. Don't be anxious either. This genius won't be spirited for long. Three days later, after the arbitration, his reputation is doomed to go down in ruins. By then, it wouldn't matter if he heads to central or anywhere else. He's destined to only be able to leave in darkness."

As the few of them spoke, the entire world suddenly felt light. Gao Tu sensed his body floating and his expression changed. "Is this guy crazy?

"Let's go!"

Gao Tu had studied Fang Xingjian's records. The damaging prowess of that technique, which Fang Xingjian had gained from the legacy of the Pantheon Monument, was simply too great. It would not be easy even for Gao Tu to face it head on.

This was especially the case since they were currently in a cave and Fang Xingjian's sword attack had brought about an earthquake. If they did not leave, they would end up being buried alive.

A few minutes ago at a different location, Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter looked at the several majestic figures who had descended from the skies, and he was shocked.

The person at the front of the group was the Deputy Governor who had previously been involved in the Regional Selection; it was Armstrong, whose face was filled with scars.

Armstrong threw a glance at Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter. Potter was just about to say something when Armstrong sent him a message, "Shut up.

"If you don't wish to die, then shut up."

It was this moment that Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter truly saw Armstrong's gaze clearly and discovered it was filled with furious killing intent.

'Deputy Governor Armstrong…' As if a flash of lightning had struck Potter's brain, he instantly understood.

'Is this Armstrong also one of the people in the upper echelons? Damn, he is the Great Western Region's Deputy Governor!

'Or is it that there are also different consensus within the Second Prince's revolutionary party?

'That must be it. One of the advantages Conferred Knights have is that they can continue synthesizing martial techniques, allowing their Nurturing and Training techniques, as well as the tempering of their attributes to far surpass that of Knights and Knight apprentices.

'However, the existence of the Rebirth Sword Technique would cause this gap to disappear.

'Therefore, there must also be many Conferred Knights who feel uneasy about this sword technique. They wouldn't like a sword technique which could reduce the gap between themselves and people below them.

'Moreover, the First Prince is about to step into the Divine level. At this time, it's apparent that there would be people under the Second Prince who would want to change their stance.'

Just as these thoughts flashed past Heaven-Shaking Sword Potter's mind, a loud whistle rang out, and the arbitrator, Sally, rushed over as well. When she saw the collapsed house and the scattered ruins, she clenched his fists tightly. "What happened? Who attacked this place? Are the kids alright?"

"They're fine. They've all been placed under protection," Armstrong said cooly.

Sally frowned as shot a glare at him. She did not like the Great Western Region's officials much.

Then she looked at Potter and asked, "What happened? Who attacked this place?"

"It's…" Potter lifted his head and saw that behind Sally, Armstrong was throwing him a glance as if he were looking at a dead man. It was apparent that he was warning Potter.

'Damn it!' Potter clenched his fists tightly as a fierce struggle occurred in his mind.

'If I were to speak the truth, I'll probably be killed.

'As expected, they wish to make use of Madam Sally?

'After all, it's someone of the northern descent. Then… how should I choose?'

In a great struggle over his decision, Potter still eventually let out a breath and said, "Madam, it was Fang…"

Then suddenly, he saw Baroque Sword Marcus, who had been dug out from the ruins behind them. Looking at the corpse lifted up onto the cart, Potter's gaze flickered.

He let out a loud laugh and shouted suddenly, "Sally, it's the people at the top…"

Before Potter had a chance to finish his sentence, Armstrong's palm had already pressed down on his shoulder. An extremely strong willpower impact was sent into Potter's mind, making him unable to speak a word nor even move a finger.

'Damn it!

'I can't move!

'I can't say a word!

'Argh!! Move!'

[1] The Chinese characters for Zuo and You are left and right respectively.

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Chapter 341 Pursue (Part II)

Armstrong's hand was quickly pushed away by Sally. However, Potter realized that not only could he not talk, but there was also a surge of power controlling his body.

Countless information flowed everywhere in his brain, constantly changing his brain signals and changing the control his brain had over his physical body.

'What's wrong?

'What is this Killing technique?

'Is he controlling my physical body?'

Armstrong gently rubbed his forehead as he controlled Potter's body with great mastery. It was one of the most secretive techniques in the Ancient Path of Hell, a Killing technique which less than ten people knews of—Small Puppet Technique.

From Sally's point of view, Potter only went into a daze for a short moment before he regained his senses and said, "Madam, it was Fang Xingjian. He started killing the moment he entered the house. His sword arts are too strong. Both of us weren't able to stop him.

"Baroque Sword fought desperately to ensure that the three kids were not killed."

Sally looked at Heaven-Shaking Sword in a daze. "Fang… Xing… Jian!"

Potter continued, "Madam, Fang Xingjian is too strong. We must request for assistance…"

When Potter was going through this scene, he was bellowing out furiously in his mind. However, he was not even able to control a single inch of his body.

'Stop! Stop!

'Return my body to me!

'Damn it!!'

His entire consciousness seemed to be trembling, but he had no way of getting out of the control of the Small Puppet Technique.

Sally looked at Potter's face and said suddenly, "Potter, you're tearing up."

Potter, who was under control, wiped off the tears on his face and said, "I'm fine. It's just that dust had gotten into my eyes."

However, the scene of Potter tearing up was deeply engraved into Sally's mind. She turned toward Armstrong like a furious lion and bellowed, "Did you hear that? Your genius, your precious Fang Xingjian, assaulted my subordinates. Not only has he ruthlessly killed one of my subordinates, he even assaulted the victims! What are you guys still doing here? Go catch him!"

Armstrong smiled and said, "I apologize. I can't arrest another Conferred Knight based on just the words of this person alone. Everything needs evidence."

Sally glared into Armstrong's eyes and said, "Great Western Region, you guys really deserve to die. Haven't you thought of the consequences if this were to continue?"

Armstrong shrugged, "Sorry."

"I will report this to the association after I return. As for Fang Xingjian, I'll catch him myself." Sally looked at the path of houses and streets Rakshasi and Fang Xingjian had destroyed, and her tone filled with anger as she said, "Those loud noises from earlier all came from that direction, right?"

With a slight tremble of her body, the clothes on her back were torn apart, and six wings made of light stretched out from the surface of her skin. These light wings seemed to have been formed by many beams of light. They were extremely dazzling and brilliant, as if they had no physical structure.

There were even hints of starlight which flashed as the light wings flapped.

With a light leap, Sally shot out, as if she were a shooting star, toward the direction in which Fang Xingjian had gone to chase Rakshasi.

The six light wings behind her were very unique. With each light flutter, Sally's speed would not increase, but the wings would create tremors and caused the space to warp, allowing her to dash through the natural gaps between spaces.

Space was something which could not be shattered but could be compressed. The six light wings on Sally's back had the ability to compress space.

Both Fang Xingjian and Rakshasi dashed at high speed by relying on their physical abilities, which caused strong gales to blow and inflict great damage to the surroundings. They also left behind a large amount of trails for Sally to use and track them down. After all, each step they made created a large meteor crater. It was simply too easy to track them down.

Each time Sally fluttered her light wings lightly, she would fly a distance of over 1,000 meters. In less than half a minute, she had already arrived at the location of Gao Tu and the others. However, after looking around, she could not find any trace of Fang Xingjian.

'Where is he? This Fang Xingjian… Where has he hidden himself?'

Sally looked around, and at the next moment, she suddenly felt her body grow lighter.

'This is…? The technique Fang Xingjian learned from the Pantheon Monument?'

As an arbitrator, Sally naturally had read in detail about Fang Xingjian. Seeing that her body as well as the rocks and trees in the surroundings had lost their gravity, she immediately realized what was happening.

'Is Fang Xingjian fighting with someone?'

In the next moment, four silhouettes crashed through the cliff walls, soaring up into the skies amidst the dust. Sally turned her head quickly and looked up at where those four figures were. Fang Xingjian was holding a rock sword up high. An extremely heavy energy was gathered around it, as if it would slash apart the entire earth with one slash in the next moment.

'Who are those four people?' Sally frowned, feeling very perplexed over this battle. However, the enemy of one's enemy would be one's friend. No matter what the reason was that Fang Xingjian was fighting those four, it would not change Sally's decision to apprehend Fang Xingjian.

After Gao Tu and the others dashed out, they escaped in all directions as per Gao Tu's instructions. Flames were thrown out from all over Gao Tu's body, and he dashed toward the north like a fiery meteor.

The twins, Zhang Zuo and Zhang You, grasped onto each other's arm and surges of power started to flow between their bodies. Although the two of them appeared as if they were moving very slowly, the had dashed over several hundred meters away in the blink of an eye.

Rakshasi let out a furious bellow which was filled with dissatisfaction, humiliation, and fury. "Fang Xingjian, treasure your final moments!"

She was the one who had it worst from Fang Xingjian, and she was also the one who was most unwilling to escape. This was especially the case when she felt that if the four of them were to join forces, they would have the advantage. Yet, they still had to escape. This made the flames of fury burn intensely in her heart.

However, since Gao Tu was unwilling to fight with Fang Xingjian, she could only follow his orders.

However, just as the four of them were escaping in different directions, a loud whistle rang out, "Don't be afraid, I'll hold him off. We can work together to capture him."

Just as Sally spoke, she condensed a light sword in her hand. After the flickering of consecutive flashes, over 100 swords appeared and surrounded Fang Xingjian, thrusting out toward him.

Fang Xingjian held onto a rock sword which had been created from the level 40 Thunder Immuring Earth Sword and was condensed with the powers of Terra Ingurgitation. However, it would only be able to deal a single blow.

Therefore, when Fang Xingjian was suddenly confronted with Sally and her violent attacks, he put up his other hand to form sword fingers and tapped onto the tips of Sally's swords. Fang Xingjian blocked all of the sword attacks with his fingers acting as a sword.

Sally was pushed back, and she laughed coldly, saying, "The Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor is truly powerful. However, to think that it has landed in the hands of a devil like yourself. Today, I'm going to rip this set of treasured armor off you."

Fang Xingjian looked at the small charred mark on his finger and said coldly, "Who are you? Why are you stopping me?"

"Knight Association, Arbitrator Sally." Sally glared at Fang Xingjian and said, "You've already forgotten about the things you did in the Great Western City earlier?"

However, Fang Xingjian was more concerned about the four people who were escaping. Gao Tu and the others also seemed to be stunned by Sally's sudden appearance. They all stopped their attempt to escape and gathered together.

Rakshasi said coldly, "Are we still going to escape in this situation? That idiotic woman has already chased him all the way here! We can kill her here and put the blame on Fang Xingjian."

"That would be meaningless. It'll be a waste of time to let the people up there send other people here. It'll allow more time for the dissemination of the Rebirth Sword Technique. Hmph, and do you think that we can just kill this woman like that?" Gao Tu said calmly, "However, we can help her capture Fang Xingjian." How could Gao Tu not be angry that he was being pressured by a junior to escape like that? Moreover, letting Sally capture Fang Xingjian would be great for their plan.

As they spoke, the four of them had already gradually surrounded Fang Xingjian.

"Arbitrator Sally, right?" Gao Tu let out a laugh and said, "Let us help you catch Fang Xingjian."

Fang Xingjian glanced at the five people who had surrounded him and then said to Sally, "Have you misunderstood something? I'm considered to have saved your subordinate back in the Great Western City earlier."

"Saved my subordinate?" As the scenes of the ruins, the wounded people, and Baroque Sword Marcus, who had died, flashed through Sally's mind, she exploded with fury, and her light wings turned into a pure gold color.

"Do you think that I'm an idiot?" Sally's gaze was covered by the pure golden glow. "Wait till I've broken all your limbs before we have a good talk."

Fang Xingjian's brows arched as he said, "Woman, did you eat sh*t? Scram this instant. Otherwise, I'll kill you as well."

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Chapter 342 Surround And Attack

'Is it as they said, that people of this lineage are easily enraged? She is so easy to control. The people up there have really sent the right person.'

Gao Tu looked at the enraged Sally with a cold gaze as he laughed inwardly in secret.

While the few of them were speaking, more and more rocks under their feet continued to fly into the sky. As Fang Xingjian had yet to unleash the Terra Ingurgitation attack, everything within two kilometers all continued to be in a non-gravitational state.

With a loud boom, slabs of earth which had an area of over 1,000 square meters broke and shattered, shooting up into the air. All the plants and rocks in the vicinity rose up, and even Gao Tu and the others flew up into the sky together with the mounds they were stepping on.

Within two kilometers, it was as if there were many new additions of floating mountains and islands.

However, Fang Xingjian lightly clenched the rock sword he was holding. 'Terra Ingurgitation is reaching its limits soon. I must unleash it within a minute… However, this woman… arbitrator… is troublesome…'

Regardless, Sally was still the arbitrator sent by the association. Just as how he had dealt with Heaven-Shaking Sword and Baroque Sword earlier, he could suppress them but could not kill them. Otherwise, it would just bring him more trouble, and he would end up losing the arbitration.

However, this woman was much more stronger than Heaven-Shaking Sword and Baroque Sword.

"Wait till I've broken all your limbs, then we'll have a good talk."

Just as Sally shouted that, the light wings on her back, as well as her eyes, shot out pure golden light, and she dashed out, creating a long stream of white smoke. The light sword she was holding had also become like a rain of light, shrouding Fang Xingjian's body.

The Effulgence Weapon she held was called God's Adjudication. It was an Effulgence Weapon which could stretch out to become 200 meters long or be as short as two centimeters. The weapon could expand and shrink freely, as well as slash out at high temperatures.

Right now, it had turned into a 200-meter-long light sword. It swept out as if a dense net of light had been cast out, slashing the floating islands below their feet into over a hundred pieces.

However, Fang Xingjian merely retreated slightly and managed to avoid most of the attacks from the light sword. The remaining impacts were blocked off with the help of the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor.

"You won't be able to escape!"

A furious bellow rang out behind Fang Xingjian. The excited Rakshasi had appeared behind him in a flash. She lifted her leg up high, and at the next moment, a series of afterimages encompassed Fang Xingjian's body.

Her kicks landed like a violent thunderstorm, each attack having the impact of the Killing technique, Comet Descent. From afar, it looked like there was a meteor shower.

With a stifled snort, Fang Xingjian retreated far away, following the flow of the attacks. Meanwhile, Rakshasi let out a horrified cry as her entire leg flew toward a small floating mound, covered in blood.

Halfway through Fang Xingjian's leap, another scorching aura burst into the air. Gao Tu's body, which was covered in flames, had changed once again. The Gargantuan Spirit Sect's Killing technique—Molten Physique—was fully unleashed. Endless lava came surging out from the pores of his body. In that instant, he turned into a molten lava giant with a height of ten meters.

Molten Physique was a transformational Killing technique similar to Blood Rampage.

"How is it, Fang Xingjian? Do you regret coming over?"

As Gao Tu laughed out maniacally, his huge molten lava palm grabbed Fang Xingjian's body. Gao Tu clamped down hard on Fang Xingjian with a force which could crush a tank and with a high temperature which could melt even rocks, swallowing Fang Xingjian's entire body.

The molten lava palm merely paused for a moment. Then in the next instant, countless sword lights soared up, and the entire molten lava palm exploded. Fang Xingjian dashed forth and once again arrived on a floating boulder several hundred meters away.

However, before he had the time to catch his breath, Sally had already arrived before him, fluttering her six pure golden light wings. The light sword in her hand contracted and expanded furiously.

It was the Killing technique, Light of Judgement.

A white light cannon with a radius of two meters gushed forward, encompassing Fang Xingjian's entire body completely while creating a long line of light in the air. Several kilometers of air was heated up. Even the air around Fang Xingjian was heated up to over 10,000 degrees celsius. The entire floating mound vaporized instantly, and Fang Xingjian rolled as he landed on the ground.

A loud bang rang out, and with the point of collision as the center, layers rippled outward. The violent burst of power created a big crater in the ground.

The moment Fang Xingjian gradually got up to his feet, the crater under his feet was already floating upward once again due to it having lost its gravity.

Concurrently, the five Conferred Knights descended once again, landing around and surrounding Fang Xingjian.

Fang Xingjian rubbed his neck and stood up, as if he had not gotten hurt at all.

Gao Tu grinned. "So, this is the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor. It's really an equipment that would make one jealous. It's such a waste for you to be wearing it."

Rakshasi glared at Fang Xingjian with a complacent expression, "Fang Xingjian, do you understand now? Your defeat is required for the current situation in this country. It's all because your actions are making you an enemy of the entire world."

Sally swept out with her light sword, and her cold tone contained great fury. "Surrender without resistance. Even the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor's defence is not limitless.

"If you don't wish to be beaten to death alive, then surrender. Although I detest your dirty soul, I'll still give you a chance to be put through a fair trial."

Fang Xingjian did not reply but looked coldly at the few Conferred Knights before him. He let out a breath and said, "What you guys said is very reasonable. If I just rely on my powers alone, I'll probably have to pay a great price to defeat all of you."

As Fang Xingjian said that, he squatted down. His skin trembled a little, and something seemed to be bulging up from inside.

"Therefore, I'll let the two monsters in my body fight with you. It just so happens that I want to test their prowess as well."

As he spoke, waves of tremors and transformations occurred on everywhere on his skin, dressing him in a set of black armor. The armor then went through a whole series of transformations, turning from the inconspicuous black armor into a faint golden armor which reflected a metallic glow.

The blaze-like glow continued to flicker on the surface of his skin. In void space, countless energies like magnetism and heat fought to enter his body.

White lights appeared on his elbows, the bottom of his feet, knees, and other body parts, one after another. Those were battle support fields which allowed him to speed up, experience an increase in strength, adjust one's accuracy, and many other things.

"Be careful! Don't let him unleash the full prowess of the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor!"

Sally let out a huge bellow and stretched out the light wings on her back once again. They turned into several tens of light swords, lining up behind her and aiming at Fang Xingjian. In just an instant, each light sword swelled up into a light pillar which was four meters thick. The light swords then turned into many Lights of Judgement, enveloping Fang Xingjian.

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Chapter 343 Horror

Gao Tu also bellowed, "Suppress him! His level is too low, so he won't be able to activate the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor for long!"

As Gao Tu spoke, the hands of the molten lava giant reached out and slapped Fang Xingjian fiercely from the left and right sides. The scorching currents, which were like puffs of high temperature steam, reached Fang Xingjian before the hands did, burning the places they passed by.

Rakshasi exploded as well, and her leg, which had once again regenerated, swelled up. In the next moment, she kicked continuously to move the atmosphere, just striking the air. The extremely condensed power compressed the atmosphere, forming many atmospheric dragons which then turned into an air cannon. The air cannon launched toward Fang Xingjian with an impact which could blast over ten streets into the air.

The two twins, Zhang Zuo and Zhang You, who had been on standby, also attacked. Chaos, death, desperation… The information currents, which seemed as if they were from a lunatic's diary, lunged out with an attack. Ignoring everything else, the information currents headed for where Fang Xingjian was standing.

Ordinary people would probably turn into lunatics if they were to receive the impacts from such information currents.

Even those at the Knight level might be unable to recover from the setback of such a mental impact. If the willpower of the Conferred Knights was not strong enough, their mental state could also collapse.

The series of horrifying attacks swept around, like over a hundred bombers were launching their attacks consecutively.

The floating island, which Fang Xingjian had just been standing on, was vaporized in an instant. Light and heat encompassed everything, and the movements of the ether particles also became extremely hectic, causing everyone to feel at a loss over what was happening.

"Even I would get hurt if I were to receive such attacks." The molten lava giant Gao Tu had turned into was now quietly assessing the situation, "It should be over for him, right?"

Sally frowned, feeling extremely perturbed like never before. To think that she had felt a little bit of panic!

"What's that? Something's coming out."

"This feeling is as if several hundred snakes are slithering on my body."

'What on earth is happening?'

The light and heat gradually extinguished and Fang Xingjian's voice rang out. Although it was still his original voice, his tone had more than ten times its usual coldness and ruthlessness.

"One second.

"You guys now have one second to think about your last words."

Potential points started to deplete, and Boundaries Negation was activated.

100,000 potential points were depleted, and Heaven's Volition Sword Intent was activated.

The Heaven's Volition Sword Intent turned into an overwhelming aura, soaring into the sky. In an instant, it encompassed Fang Xingjian's entire consciousness and then slowly extended outward while it filled up Fang Xingjian's body.

Countless information, sword techniques, and experiences started to swell up within Fang Xingjian's mind, accompanied with endless agony which caused his eyes to turn bloodshot.

Concurrently, a terrifying energy exploded within his body as if a balloon had inflated inside him. Heat, light, electricity, magnetism, and even ether particles were all robbed of their freedom and sapped of their energy by an absolute willpower.

Swoosh!

A black silhouette appeared before Gao Tu, then the world reflected in Gao Tu's eyes seemed to suddenly shatter.

An information current gushed into Gao Tu's brain, and he could even see the hint of disdain in Fang Xingjian's eyes within this information flow. Fang Xingjian's voice was also ringing out in his consciousness.

"Take this attack from me. If you survive, I'll spare your life."

Terra Ingurgitation finally exploded with an overwhelming prowess. Countless violent energies plunged down with Fang Xingjian's sword. Molten lava exploded, and over 10,000 tons of it splattered across the sky like a fireworks display.

The blood from Gao Tu's body burst out, then he plunged down, colliding into the ground like a meteor.

Simultaneously, an electromagnetic wave, so brutal it could be seen by the naked eye, swept out. The level 30 Thunder Immuring Earth Sword was activated. Gao Tu felt as if the ground under his feet was suddenly pushing him up, while the floating islands in the sky plunged down due to having regained their gravitational forces. The floating islands formed a huge sword which was like a small mountain in mid-air, slashing down onto Gao Tu's head.

With a mountain descending down on him while a grade 7 to 9 earthquake pushing him up from below, Gao Tu let out a loud bellow and sent fire out in all directions which exploded like fuel-air explosives. It was only with this that he barely managed to fend off the mountain plunging down onto him.

In that instant that he fended off the mountain, over half of the bones in his body cracked, and blood splattered out like a fountain. It was as if he was clamped down by two blocks of mountains, one on top and the other at the bottom, preventing him from budging.

As Fang Xingjian sent out this attack, Terra Ingurgitation was completed. Countless trees and mounds of varying sizes, as well as rocks and boulders, came crashing down.

Fang Xingjian merely spent 0.2 seconds to do all of this.

At 15 times that of supersonic speed of, all the rocks raining down seemed as if they were at a standstill. Taking a few steps forward, Fang Xingjian appeared behind Rakshasi in an instant, and his sword was as quick as lightning as it pierced toward the back of her waist.

However, in this world which was seemingly motionless, Rakshasi turned her head abruptly and swept out with her long leg, bringing about fierce rippling air currents.

Although her greatest speed might not be comparable to Fang Xingjian's, it did not mean that she was unable to retaliate at all.

However, when Rakshasi turned back, she only managed to kick an afterimage.

Simultaneously, a stream of message flowed into her brain.

"Do you know how fast light is?"

In that instant, Rakshasi could only see six light spots magnify rapidly in her eyes, filling up her vision as if they were six suns.

The prowess of the level 40 Zenith Light Sword Formation was fully unleashed. With the additional enhancement from the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent, its prowess was more than ten times stronger than when Fang Xingjian had performed it himself.

Countless light swords swept past Rakshasi's body. They did not slash her but merely heated up, causing the water in Rakshasi's body to vaporize instantly.

"Ahh!" A terrified cry escaped from Rakshasi's throat. As she regenerated, she tried to dash over 100 meters away. However, no matter how much she tried to dash to escape and no matter how much she accelerated, she was unable to dodge the attacks from the light swords.

Her body continued to heat up; the water from her eyes broke down, and her blood turned into scorching steam. Her lungs and heart were all charred.

Amidst Rakshasi's struggling and terrified cries, she gradually came to a stop. Only the slight fluctuation of her brain waves showed that she was still considered to be alive.

During this period when she was struggling, there was a flash, and Fang Xingjian once again appeared before Zhang Zuo and Zhang You. The twins grabbed onto Fang Xingjian, sending the garbage in their brains incessantly into Fang Xingjian's consciousness like they were viruses.

Amidst the information flow, there were also their bellows, "Feel our agony!"

However, at the next moment, the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent, which was located at the center of his consciousness, thumped like a heart. Then it suddenly unleashed a huge force, and it was like there were countless sharp swords slashing the information current into dust.

A stronger and more brutal martial will swept out, "Heresy, not worth a mention."

Soft swoosh swoosh swoosh sounds radiated outward in the air. Over 100 streams of Ether Sword Ripples swept out, slashing the twins into big chunks in accordance to the flaws pointed out by the level 1 Unparalleled Sword Intent.

After seriously injuring Gao Tu and Rakshasi as well as instantly killing Zhang Zuo and Zhang You, only 0.7 seconds had passed by.

Fang Xingjian turned to look toward Sally only to realize that she was charging toward him in infuriation. The pure golden light wings on her back were flaring up, bringing about hints of pale white flames.

Fang Xingjian only had the opportunity to sense his current situation in the time it took for Sally to charge toward him.

'100% ether synchronization rate?

'Such a strong ability to sense information…

'There's so much information.

'I can see the gaps between spaces.

'I can see the future changes of skills.

'I can sense… the flow of time.'

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Chapter 344 Tear Apart

In the last 0.2 seconds to the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent, Sally had already dashed right up to Fang Xingjian. Under Heaven's Perception, everything about Sally was displayed to Fang Xingjian. He could see her body structure, the secrets to her lineage, the light wings which she had been able to reform at level 25 thanks to her lineage, the burning fury in her mind, and even some of the scenes which Sally would experience in the future.

Layers of light swords turned into a net and came down, enveloping Fang Xingjian. However, Fang Xingjian's right hand was like a sharp sword, piercing through the light net. It passed through all the gaps in the light net and then grabbed onto Sally's throat mercilessly.

Sally who had charged forward at full speed only felt that a tremendous strength was suppressing her neck and causing her entire body to instantly become motionless.

After moving a few centimeters, she came to a stop from over ten times that of supersonic speed. How great was the opposing force required to accomplish this? It had completely surpassed the level which Sally could handle. She felt that her entire body seemed like it had been knocked by a huge mountain.

The positions of her organs shifted a lot, and her blood vessels exploded like burst water pipes. The worst thing was that under the huge impact, her brain knocked against her skull, giving her a great concussion and driving her consciousness into disorder. She was completely unable to react to what was happening.

In the next moment, 12 streams of Ether Sword Ripples swept out, chopping off Sally's four limbs. Blood gushed out from her wounds like flowing water, turning her surroundings into a pool of blood.

It was only at this moment that the explosion of the Heaven's Volition Sword Intent slowly began to end. After dissipating, it then curled up once again and returned to the center of Fang Xingjian's consciousness, surrounded by all the other skill seeds.

That earlier feeling of omniscience and being able to see through everything disappeared from Fang Xingjian's body. The great disparity stimulated Fang Xingjian's consciousness continuously.

'Divine level?

'No, it only allowed me to have a portion of a level 29 Conferred Knight's powers.

'But… it is really strong.

'Teacher James, Sword Saint, First Prince… The powers that they have are this overwhelming—no, much more than this?'

Fang Xingjian swept a glance at the dizzy Sally and tossed her to the ground like she was some kind of rubbish.

Throwing a glance to the side, he noticed that Rakshasi, who was a distance away, was staring at him. When Rakshasi saw Fang Xingjian looking toward her, her expression turned into that of horror. However, she was suffering from heavy burns and could not move. She could not even escape, but her body continued to tremble non-stop.

Gao Tu continued to hold up the rock sword, which was like a small mountain and had dropped down on him from the skies. His eyes were tightly shut, like he was a statue. In actuality, at this moment, he was no longer breathing, having died from expending all of his strength.

Sally trembled as she lifted her head to look at Fang Xingjian. The backlash from earlier had caused all the blood vessels throughout her body to burst, and although they were now healing, fresh blood continued to flow out from her eye sockets, nose, mouth, and ears.

Putting in great effort take a look at the surrounding situation, Sally trembled as she opened her mouth to say, "What are you doing? What on earth have you done?! You've killed three Conferred Knights!"

Fang Xingjian looked at Sally, whose limbs had been cut off and were barely keeping up with the regeneration and healing. She was still suffering from a concussion, and it was to the extent that she was not even able to keep up her Waves and mental cultivation method. As Fang Xingjian looked down at her, he said nonchalantly, "I killed them because I wanted to. Woman, if it was not because of your identity, you'd be dead as well. You're quite strong. Your bones can be used to make a good set of armor."

"Demon… Unforgivable!"

Sally shouted and opened her eyes wide, sending out two white high energy light beams which then encompassed Fang Xingjian's head.

However, Fang Xingjian's head was still protected by the Heavenly Abyss Annihilation Armor's helmet. He merely felt a slight warmth but did not receive any damage.

It was true that Sally was very powerful. She could move instantly between the gaps in space. She also had various sword techniques using light speeds and high temperatures, as well as a pair of light wings which could absorb energy from ether particles endlessly.

After being shot, Fang Xingjian kicked Sally's face, smashing it up while sending her flying over 100 meters away. Sally smashed through a huge boulder and rolled over ten rounds before she came to a stop.

Sally bellowed furiously, "Kill me! If you don't, be it ten years or 100 years, I'll definitely catch you!"

"Woman, didn't anyone tell you that your character is very detestable?" Fang Xingjian stomped down on Sally's back. While she was trying to stand up, he pushed her body back into the earth once again. She even took in large amount of soil and dust through her mouth.

"I saved your subordinate, chased away the assassin who had assaulted the house, and yet you came to annoy me time and time again.

"Do you really think that I won't kill an arbitrator?"

Fang Xingjian stretched out his hand, grabbed one of her light wings, and tugged it strongly toward the rear.

"Ahhh!" Sally, who had the expression and determination of a Predator[1, was trembling as she let out a terrifying cry when her wings were pulled. It was clear that her light wings were her weakness.

However, Fang Xingjian's earlier words rang in her mind, 'What is this? What rubbish is he talking about?'

Fang Xingjian tugged with great strength and the light wing became distorted. Tremendous pain rang out in Sally's head continuously, causing her to cry out in agony endlessly. It was a pity that even her entire head was being pressed down into the earth, so even though she continued to struggle on, she could only let out muffled sounds.

Fang Xingjian continued to say, "Arbitrator? You don't even know anything. The Rebirth Sword Technique is a sword technique that will change the entire world, and you're just a blade sent by those in the upper echelons who are afraid of changes, as well as decadents who have been blinded by their self-interests.

"If you want to know what the Rebirth Sword Technique is really like, won't you know after practicing it for yourself?"

A soft chi sound rang out, and a crack appeared in Sally's wings. Her expression immediately turned into a very hideous expression of extreme agony.

Under Fang Xingjian's strong tugging, the entire light wing was torn off with a pfft sound. Sally trembled furiously, trying to struggle against him. For a moment, even Fang Xingjian was unable to suppress her. It was clear that this action was causing Sally extreme pain and agony.

Sally's struggling finally came to a stop one minute later, but her breath suddenly became very weak.

Tossing the light wing on the ground, Fang Xingjian then headed in Rakshasi's direction. "Arbitrator Sally, three days later, I'll prove to you that there are no problems with the Rebirth Sword Technique. However, within this three days, if you were to do any more ridiculous things to disturb me…"

Fang Xingjian turned abruptly to meet the gaze of Sally who had lifted her head up. It was as if there was a clash in the air, making the air currents to be slightly turbulent.

Then Fang Xingjian continued, "If that's the case, then the thing from earlier would be my final warning to you."

With that, he continued to walk toward Rakshasi. Rakshasi slowly moved her body, saying weakly, "Don't come over. Don't get near me. Don't come over…"

The scene of Fang Xingjian tearing off the light wing from earlier had clearly given her quite a shock.

Sally used great effort to raise up her palm. The bones there had just finished regenerating, and there were bits of muscles starting to grow out. She shouted out in a hoarse voice, "Wait, don't go. Make yourself clear."

However, Fang Xingjian lifted up Rakshasi, hoisted her over his shoulder, and left. Sally could only watch Fang Xingjian's back as he gradually disappeared.

"Fang! Xing! Jian! Don't you leave!

"Come back here!"

Her palms, which just had its muscles regenerated, now clench down toward the earth furiously. As she left behind a big clawing mark in the earth, the blood vessels near the newly regenerated muscles exploded, causing a pool of fresh blood to gush out.

Suddenly, her eyes lit up. Fang Xingjian really did turn back.

She saw him walking up to Gao Tu, and he then took away the corpse of that Conferred Knight with him.

"I almost forgot. A level 25 Conferred Knight is worth a lot of money."

[1] Reference taken from the film, Predator, a 1987 American science-fiction action horror film directed by John McTiernan. https/en./wiki/Predator_(film)

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