Chapter 722 – Perceiving the Source of Fire
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Because the red-scaled youth's performance was too dazzling, there was an awkward silence for a time afterwards. No one wanted to try right after.
"I'll give it a go too!" With a clear sound, a woman dressed in red stepped in front of the Ancient Phoenix Testament. She was also from the group of geniuses from the Realm of the Gods. She wasn't too beautiful, but she had a very dainty appearance. She serenely looked at the red-robed old man and said, "Realm of the God's Huo Clan, Huo Yu!"
"Okay. You may begin." The red-robed old man showed the Ancient Phoenix Testament to the woman dressed in red.
A sharp light shone in her eyes, and then an incomparably burning hot, crimson true essence suddenly erupted. In the next moment, flaming lines appeared in her pupils, a trace representation of the source of all fire principles.
Two breaths of time! She also took two breaths of time!
The successive Realm of the Gods martial artists had only taken two breaths of time to fuse with the fire-attribute Laws. None of the lower realm martial artists were exasperated by this though; the disparity between them was too obvious.
The woman dressed in red took several dozen breaths of time, and then, rice-sized grains of red light appeared before sinking into her body.
"Two breaths of time in meditation, a small amount of fire source energy absorbed. Your result is the first-level, C-grade!" The red-robed old man said with a satisfied expression. For two new trial challengers to have a first-level comprehension was already a very good result.
After two first-level results suddenly popped out from the Realm of the Gods group, the lower realm martial artists could only look at each other in blank dismay. For a long time, no one went on up. Going up now would only emphasize the great disparity between them. The pressure was just too great. If one couldn't achieve an eye-catching result, then one couldn't even hold their heads up anymore.
Those martial artists from the Realm of the Gods had already all gone up. They happily looked over at the martial artists from the lower realms; the pressure on those martial artists who still hadn't gone to determine their talent was suddenly enormous
After several awkward breaths of time passed, Lin Ming moved towards the Ancient Phoenix Testament.
"Brother Nuyan, it's not too good if you go up now; the pressure is too great…." Yellowright Min kindly reminded him. He didn't know how well Lin Ming comprehended the Laws of Fire, but he likely wouldn't be able to compare with those two monstrous geniuses from the Realm of the Gods.
"It doesn't matter." Lin Ming didn't care if others made fun of him. His Concept of Fire wasn't too impressive. Let alone his Concept of Fire, even his Concept of Space wasn't comparable to the others. His advantage lay in his dual cultivation of law and body, and his foundation that was solid to the extreme.
As Lin Ming stepped forwards, everyone immediately looked at him.
"A boy from those lower realm dregs is coming up. Haha, if he has the courage to come up then he should have some skill. If he does well, he might reach the second-level, B-grade."
"Maybe even second-level, A-grade. Although those lower realm martial artists are mostly trash, there are occasionally one or two that are passable. If he can reach the second-level, A-grade then that's about the same as you." A Realm of the Gods martial artist teased Huo Ping. Huo Ping had been the first martial artist from the Realm of the Gods to go up. His evaluation had been at the second-level, A-grade."
"Humph, second-level, A-grade isn't that hard to achieve either," Huo Ping dismissively said. He didn't like that others were comparing him to Lin Ming, a mere boy from the world of mortals.
Lin Ming ignored these conversations. Instead, he stood in front of the Ancient Phoenix Testament and reported his name. "Sky Spill Continent's Nuyan Family, Nuyan Ming."
"Mm, beg begin," the red-robed old man said without expression as he showed the Ancient Phoenix Testament to Li Ming.
As Lin Ming looked straight at the images and words of the Ancient Phoenix Testament, he didn't feel anything at the start. But, after looking at it more carefully, he only felt that it contained infinite mysteries. Those strange lines and letters that looked like dancing dragons and phoenixes seemed as if they contained the very source of the Great Dao, from when the universe began forming! The truths and principles contained within were far too profound; for a time, Lin Ming fell into a trance.
This sort of feeling was like his mind had been suddenly stuffed with a massive amount of information. It made his head ache and his consciousness blur.
Lin Ming bit down on his tongue and the battle spirit in his spiritual sea trembled. It was only then that Lin Ming was able to calm his mind.
One breath of time…two breaths of time…three breaths of time….
At the fourth breath of time, no images of the Fire Laws reflected yet in Lin Ming's eyes. This caused Yellowright Ming to be nervous for Lin Ming. If he couldn't show fusion with the Fire Laws at four breaths of time, then at most he would obtain a second-level, C-rank result. If he had this result at the very start, then it wouldn't have been too shameful. But to have this result now, after those two Realm of the Gods geniuses had shown off, then others would simply laugh at him.
The Realm of the Gods' disciples grinned as they saw this, talking amongst themselves. Huo Ping had a smug expression as he said, "How mediocre. Although I didn't reach the first-level, a second-level, A-grade is still a degree of glory that these lower realm martial artists will never hope to achieve."
Lin Ming still remained immersed in perceiving the Laws of Fire.
Five breaths of time…
Six breaths of time…
…Six breaths of time?
Yellowright Min was shocked. Six breaths of time was certainly "breaking a record," but it was the record for being the worst. Out of everyone whom had gone up so far, no one had surpassed five breaths of time.
"Six breaths of time! What? Six breaths of time most likely means he doesn't have the qualifications to reach the second-level; he'll be at the third-level. How could such a person have crossed the king level trial qualifications?"
As a Realm of the Gods martial artist commented, even the red-robed man who was managing the test slightly frowned. He too suspected whether or not Lin Ming had the qualifications to past the king level smelting trial.
Was it possible that his bloodline was light but his combat strength was extraordinary?
Seven breaths….eight breaths…
No trace of flame principles yet appeared in Lin Ming's pupils.
All of the martial artists had strange expressions on their faces. Where did this fellow come from? This performance was just too disappointing! Did he come here to waste everyone's time?
Finally, at the tenth breath of time, small flickering lines finally reflected in Lin Ming's eyes. People thought that Lin Ming had finally fused with the Flame Laws, but what followed afterwards left everyone speechless.
That little trace of flame source principles hadn't even spread out when they had already hidden themselves again, vanishing without a trace.
"This…"
Even Yellowright Min couldn't continue watching such an embarrassing sight. To use to breaths of time to finally achieve fusion with the Fire Laws and still fail at the end! What a joke!
11 breaths of time…
12 breaths of time…
The tiny traces of fire source principles appeared again. But, just like the last time, these traces didn't even grow before they disappeared again, restoring Lin Ming's pupils to darkness.
"Good heavens! He failed again! This fellow's comprehension of the Concept of Fire is simply at a trivial level!" a Realm of the Gods martial artist impatiently exclaimed.
"Sir Protector, he's obviously wasting our time here. I have no idea how he got in, but h his understandings into the Concept of Fire might as well be the same as a 13- or 14-year-old child," another Realm of the Gods martial artist said.
"If he continues being unable to fuse with the Fire Laws, do we just continue watching? The Ancient Phoenix Testaments are handwritten scriptures left behind by our Ancient Phoenix Clan's Patriarchs before they died and ascended to Nirvana. Thus, their numbers are limited. Even a genius might not have a chance to perceive them. And yet currently it is currently being squandered on this fellow here. This is truly a waste!" a martial artist said in a gratingly harsh voice.
The red-robed old man's face became gloomy and he said in a low voice, "This old man is the director of the test here. Whether or not anyone has the qualifications to participate in the smelting trial, do you think that is something you can comment on? When a trial challenger is meditating on the source of Fire Laws, no one can fight, no one can cause a disturbance! Otherwise, any and all offenders shall be expelled from Timeworn Phoenix City!"
As the red-robed old man spoke, he released an invisible aura. As the pressure pushed down on that Realm of the Gods martial artist, his face paled and he suddenly dared not speak further.
The truth was that, even if they fiercely argued with each other, Lin Ming wouldn't have heard them anyways. At this time, he was deep in meditation. He had sealed off his five senses and wasn't even aware of the passing of time. With the support of the ethereal martial intent, he was completely focused on comprehending the source of Fire Laws.
Lin Ming's understanding of the Concept of Fire could truly only be considered at a very basic level; within the Ancient Phoenix Clan, it was equivalent to that of a 13- or 14-year-old child. He had to use a full ten breaths of time in order to touch upon these principles, producing a trace of it in his pupils.
However, just as these tiny traces formed, they had actually vanished. To Lin Ming's surprise, he discovered that these trace principles were actually being absorbed by the Heretical God Seed!
After these traces were absorbed, they sealed themselves on the surface of the Heretical God Seed, forming a small circle of totems.
Lin Ming had never imagined that this would occur. He continued to perceive the source Fire Laws from the Ancient Phoenix Testament. After several more breaths of time, he once more became faintly aware, producing yet another tiny trace of fire principles within his eyes. However, after another brief moment, these traces were again absorbed by the Heretical God Seed.
This repeated itself several times. More and more runes were engraved on the Heretical God Seed, becoming increasingly clear.
Lin Ming carefully observed these engraved flame seals on the Heretical God Seed and found that they were similar to those of the Ancient Phoenix Testament. However, there were some slight differences. The ones within him were even more mysterious and incomprehensible.
Lin Ming was shocked. He continued to perceive them—he faintly felt that within these capricious mysterious, the most enigmatic power of source Laws sealed there was slowly beginning to open their doors to him. A vast and vibrant breadth of the Great Dao seemed to blow out, the mysteries of the universe's essential Laws wrapped within its grasp!
20 breaths of time…
30 breaths of time…
As Lin Ming was in meditation, he felt that all the mysteries of the Ancient Phoenix Testament were being engraved onto the Heretical God Seed!
In half an incense stick of time, Lin Ming still didn't move. Now it wasn't just the Realm of the Gods martial artists who were becoming impatient, even the martial artists from the lower realms were also growing antsy. They had come to Timeworn Phoenix City in order to perceive the root of Flame Laws, not see someone meditate on the most elementary level of the Concept of Fire.
However, because of the red-robed old man, no one dared to speak. Yellowright Min looked at Lin Ming, his mouth crooked; just what was Lin Ming doing?
If he couldn't even fuse with the power of Laws within half an incense stick of time, then this was a once-in-a-lifetime performance that really defied the heavens. Just how had he managed to mingle himself into Timeworn Phoenix City?
While Yellowright Min was lost in thought, at this moment, Lin Ming's body suddenly shook. Within his eyes, complex lines of fire began reflecting within his pupils. These lines were constantly evolving and changing, as if they contained the endless riddles of the universe.
The less knowledgeable young martial artists didn't seem to think anything was strange, but as the red-robed test director saw this, his eyes lit up and he held his breath. "This is…."
The red-robed old man muttered to himself. But at this time, around Lin Ming, a crazy amount of flame source energy began rapidly condensing. A group of fist-sized red orbs of light grew at a noticeable pace, illuminating the dark hall with a luminous glow.
"What are these lights?" The martial artists present were all stunned.
"Could…could this be the power of fire source energy? Is this a joke…" Huo Ping was bewildered. The red-scaled youth from the Realm of the Gods had only been able to form a bean-sized amount of this energy, but Lin Ming had formed those the size of a fist! The energy contained within was dozens or even hundreds of times richer!
Chapter 723 – In Stark Opposition
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Although it was hard to believe, all of the martial artists present were masters of Fire Laws. How could they not recognize the power of fire source energy?
Those round balls of red light contained a staggering amount of pure fire source energy. Not just that, but they were still continuing to grow.
The red-scaled man from the Realm of the Gods sucked in a deep breath. Compared to these energy orbs that Lin Ming had conjured, his own had been like fireflies in a bright night's moonlight; they were simply incomparable.
"Where did this fellow come from? How could he have such a terrifying source energy compatibility?"
In studying the Ancient Phoenix Testament, the process was divided into two parts. The first was a martial artist's perception and the degree they were able to perceive the Laws. The higher one's perception was and the higher their attainments in fire-attribute Laws, then the speed of their fusion with these Laws would also be higher.
The second part was a martial artist's compatibility with fire source energy. The easier it was for a martial artist to fuse with this source energy, then the more source energy they would absorb after meditating on the Ancient Phoenix Testament.
Lin Ming's current situation was that he had taken nearly half an incense stick of time to fuse with the Laws; this proved that his comprehension of the Concept of Fire was only at the most basic, elementary level. However, what was surprising was that after he fused with the Laws, the source energy he absorbed was over a 100 times that of the red-scaled man!
This gap left all of the Realm of the Gods martial artists dumbfounded, all of them unable to utter a word. No one had heard of such a strange and wonderful situation like this happening in the history of the Ancient Phoenix Clan.
At this moment, the last flame totem pattern finally etched itself onto the surface of the Heretical God Seed. Then, the entire pattern flashed with a bright light and all of the surrounding fist-sized source energies began flocking towards Lin Ming's body like a pack of phoenixes!
For a time, Lin Ming's entire body burned, emitting dazzling rays of golden light that stung the eyes of everyone present. They could hear the very source of the Great Dao crying out from within Lin Ming's body, sending out that vast and infinite aura, as if a phoenix itself was undergoing rebirth through Nirvana within his body!
As the red-robed old man saw this, he sucked in a deep breath. He looked at Lin Ming, all sorts of thoughts flashing by his eyes.
All of the other martial artists in the hall weren't sure just what to say, or even what had happened.
As Huo Ping saw all those incomparably precious red lights completely absorbed by Lin Ming, his heart heated with frustration. To take half a incense stick of time was the result of a 14 or 15 year old child in their clan. But his ability to absorb fire source energy had actually thrown off everyone here by countless miles.
For a martial artist, it was possible to use time to slowly make up for their degree of perceiving Laws through meditation. But a martial artist's compatibility to fire source energy was something they were born with; it wasn't easy to increase. The higher compatibility that a martial artist had, the easier it was for them to move the massive amount of fire origin energy present in the world. Their endurance, restorative ability, and striking force was a level above those martial artists with a lower compatibility.
For a time, Huo Ping's heart surged with jealousy and a deep abiding sense of helplessness. He gritted his teeth and said to the red-scaled youth, "Brother Long, this king level smelting trial is our first battle. If we already lose to others here, we won't even be able to apply to return to the Realm of the Gods for the second stage of the trial. If we continue to be pressured by this boy, then even if our result was originally good then it
still becomes garbage."
For many cases, results were relative, not absolute. In their world, the only result that matter was becoming number one, because only the person at the apex would be noticed by others. For the person that obtained second place, even if their results were better than the one in first place, they would still be overshadowed. This was why some people thought that it was a sorrow to be born in the same generation as a peerless hero.
The red-scaled youth named Brother Long said, "We can't compare to him in compatibility, but on the other hand, his comprehension of the Concept of Fire is far inferior to ours. Both of us have our own respective strengths. As for who will win in the end, no one knows. I guess that this fellow's perception shouldn't be that great."
As Huo Ping listened to the red-scaled man speak, his eyes lit up. Ah, that was right! Because of that one blow from Lin Ming just now he had nearly forgotten how much more superior he was to begin with. Lin Ming's affinity with fire source energy was indeed extraordinary, but if his perception and comprehension of the Concept of Fire was horrible, then he would never be able to perceive higher level of abilities and skills, and all that compatibility would be wasted.
Thinking of this, the crestfallen Huo Ping gathered up all of his collapsed confidence again.
"Brother Long is right. His perception shouldn't be any good, otherwise his comprehension of the Concept of Fire wouldn't be poor to that degree. Moreover, in the king level smelting trial, one must meditate and perceive the 36 Ancient Phoenix totem stones; perception is too important for this. We have the advantage in this aspect. This fellow is likely a simple-minded boy with a great body and nothing else; he certainly shouldn't be able to perceive any sort of pattern. Someone with such a monstrous talent for compatibility with fire source energy having such poor perception is truly a waste!" Huo Ping said, incensed. If only that fellow could hand over that monstrous compatibility to him then life would be great.
"Our talents have already been tested. We should be choosing our Ancient Phoenix totem stones soon. Huo Ping, with my understanding of you, it would be a good decision if you chose the Profound Gold Flame Totem left behind by the Twelfth Patriarch." The red-scaled youth began to remind the young elites from the Realm of the Gods with true essence sound transmissions. The red-scaled youth had a very good understanding of the totem stones in Timeworn Phoenix City.
"Alright Brother Long, I'll listen to you," Huo Ping happily said. Everyone would only have two hours to choose which Ancient Phoenix Totem they wanted. Choosing the best totem stone for oneself in a limited timespan wasn't easy; it was much better with guidance from someone.
"You are called Nuyan Ming, correct?" The red-robed man had a faint smile hanging on his face as he looked at Lin Ming.
"Yes, Sir." Lin Ming cupped his fists together, replying in a respectful yet pleasant manner.
"Your compatibility with source energy is good. But. It's just a pity that your comprehension of Fire Laws are lacking. This is the first time that I've seen a situation like this so it's not possible for me to give you an accurate evaluation. For now, I'll temporarily judge you as first-level, A-grade." As the red-robed old man slowly drawled out his words, the red-scaled youth slightly frowned.
A first-level, A-grade evaluation meant that Lin Ming would have the first choice. Of the 36 Ancient Phoenix Totem Stones of Timeworn Phoenix City, there were several choices that were obviously better than the others. If Lin Ming chose the same one as him then he would have no choice but to give it to Lin Ming.
"Thank you, Sir." Lin Ming could feel the goodwill from the red-robed old man's words. He had disregarded his elementary comprehension of Laws and had even evaluated him at the first-level, A-grade, giving him first choice.
"Nuyan Ming, your situation is certainly rare in my Ancient Phoenix Clan. I shall give you some advice. Perception and comprehension of Laws are often more important than your compatibility with source energy. You must not be complacent just because of some advantages you have. Within the Realm of the Gods, where the main clan is, there are those who have a perfect Phoenix Clan bloodline, and there are many monstrous youths that have a compatibility and perception that far outstrip you! Since your perception is poor you must practice and perceive the Laws through meditation every day; do not waste your compatibility with source energy! As the saying goes, a lack of talent can be made up with hard work and effort. Make sure that you try your hardest."
As the red-robed old man slowly spoke, all of the other martial artists in the hall grew jealous. The red-robed old man had clearly taken a liking towards this Lin Ming otherwise he would never have given such useful advice. The advantages were obvious in obtaining the recognition of a senior from Timeworn Phoenix City.
"Yes, Sir, this junior understands." Lin Ming deeply bowed to show his thanks.
The red-robed old man nodded with satisfaction. "I should also mention that if you can catch up in the aspect of comprehension of Laws, after you reach the Divine Sea realm, then I can recommend you to go to the Realm of the Gods to complete the second stage of your trial. Of course, the basis of this is that you can obtain the number one spot in the first stage of this trial."
As the red-robed old man's voice fell, everyone was shocked silly!
As long as he could obtain the number one spot in the first stage of this smelting trial, then he could go to the Realm of the Gods to attempt the second stage!
The king level smelting trial grounds of the Realm of the Gods was where many outstanding young elites of the Ancient Phoenix Clan wished to go, but many didn't have the qualifications to do so! As for the Ancient Phoenix Clan martial artists of the lower realms, obtaining these qualifications was simply wishful thinking!
Now, Lin Ming actually had this chance! How could they not be jealous!
Many martial artists couldn't help but glance at the red-scaled youth from the Realm of the Gods. In order for Lin Ming to obtain the top spot, he would have to surpass that youth!
Lin Ming's compatibility was indeed high, but that red-scaled youth's perception was abnormal. This was a battle of compatibility versus perception. They stood in stark opposition to each other!
The red-scaled youth looked intensely at Lin Ming. He had thought that he would easily stroll through the smelting trial of Timeworn Phoenix City, but he didn't imagine that events would rapidly devolve to this degree. The red-robed old man's words were obviously spoken to stir up some conflict. When astounding talents went all out to defeat the other, they would be able to bring out their maximum potential through competition, breaking through their own limits.
This battle was one he must win. Not only was this a matter of honor and face, but it was also because he presented the true Phoenix Clan from the Realm of the Gods.
The red-scaled youth's expression didn't change. He sent a true essence sound transmission to Huo Ping: "I must win first place in this smelting trial. This is not related to glory. If I lose, then I shall be relegated to a much more minor position in the family. You must help me as much as you can."
The red-scaled youth also came from the Huo Clan within the Realm of the Gods. His name was Huo Wenlong. The great families of the Realm of the Gods placed great importance on tradition and glory; all of them had a natural sense of superiority deeply ingrained within their bones. To them, a heroic young elite from a Family Clan within the Realm of the Gods had no choice but to become number one.
If Huo Wenlong was used as a stepping stone by Lin Ming this time, then he would lose all sense of glory and pride. M Moreover, Huo Wenlong had originally lost the qualifications to attend the king level smelting trial in the Realm of the Gods to begin with, and because of that his heart had been turbulent. He had steeled himself to make a big show here to show his Family Clan just how talented he was in order to try returning to the Realm of the Gods for the next stage of the smelting trial. But, if he lost here, then that dream would vanish.
"Of course. Brother Long, Seventh Sister and I will help you as much as we can." Huo Ping immediately displayed his utter loyalty. He couldn't really be regarded as any decent talent within the Realm of the Gods' Huo Clan. If nothing happened, then he would be assigned by the clan to go out to the middle of nowhere and manage a branch business of arranging training resources. If he could be on good terms with Huo Wenlong, then this would be very helpful to him in the future.
"Well done. The test has ended here. You can all go to choose your own Ancient Phoenix Totem Stone Now. You all have two hours to choose. Two hours from now, all of you must show which choice you've made to me." The red-robed old man spoke before turning around, and leading everyone deeper into the temple.
Chapter 724 – Burning Heaven Totem Stone
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There was a great deal of skill involved in choosing an Ancient Phoenix Totem. If one didn't roughly understand the various 36 Ancient Phoenix Totem Stones, then choosing one within two hours wouldn't be easy, especially for those whose choices were of a lower priority.
The 36 Ancient Phoenix Totem Stones were either precious artifacts left behind by peerless powerhouses of the Ancient Phoenix Clan or they had been forged in the primal creation chaos of the universe. Either way, they were incomparably precious treasures. Still, if one had to compare them, each one had their own advantages and disadvantages.
Even though some had been created by the peerless powerhouses of the Ancient Phoenix Clan, there were ones made by Patriarchs and ones made by Elders; of course, there were differences between them. Moreover, even if they had been created by the same peerless powerhouses, the Ancient Phoenix Totem Stones each of them left behind had still been divided into ordinary works and superior works; there was no defined standard.
The red-robed old man led the group to walk down for a quarter hour. Suddenly, in front of them, a great open corridor appeared. This corridor was 300 feet wide, and wide enough to fit 10 carriages side by side, still leaving some space.
On both sides of this corridor there were red metal doors. These metal doors were 200 feet high and 100 feet wide, engraved with a variety of images. There were immortal Phoenixes, three-legged Golden Crows, rising suns, and crimson-colored eyes.
The red-robed old man said, "The area where we now are is called the Four Corridors of Twisting Flame. As the name suggests, there is a total of four levels. From the inside to outside, the mysteries and Laws contained within the totem stones become much simpler.
"At the very center is the Chaos Corridor. The Chaos Corridor has three chambers, each with a totem stone within. These totem stones were formed at the very beginning of the universe, when all that existed was pure chaos. Thus, these totem stones have a trace of the chaos source energy left over from the creation of the universe; one could consider these objects to be touching upon the very root of the Great Dao. If you can completely understand them then you may become one of people with the deepest comprehension of the Laws, within the entire Realm of the Gods! However… this old man shall be honest with all of you. With your current realm, going into those three chambers won't have much of an effect on you. Even if your perception is high, you can give up on obtaining any benefits there; your current boundary is simply far too lacking. Let alone you, even those trial challengers from the second stage would have trouble perceiving the mysteries within them.
"Outside the Chaos Corridor is the Sky Corridor. The Sky Corridor has three chambers, each one containing an Ancient Phoenix Totem Stone. These three totem stones have all been left behind by previous Patriarchs of the Ancient Phoenix Clan. Moreover, they are among their greatest works. In Timeworn Phoenix City, their value is only inferior to the Chaos Totem Stones.
"Afterwards, outside the Sky Corridor is the Earth Corridor. It has a total of ten chambers, and the totem stones there have also been left behind by precious Patriarchs, the only difference being that they are inferior to the previously mentioned top works.
"And the outermost corridor is called the Mortal Corridor. There is a total of 20 chambers there. The totem stones there have all been created by previous Elders of the Ancient Phoenix Clan. Moreover, the best of these works are not much worse than those left behind by the previous Patriarchs."
As the red-robed Elder introduced the stone totems to the martial artists, their faces were filled with regret intertwined with longing. Many of them looked at Lin Ming and Huo Wenlong, their eyes filled with envy.
The two of them would undoubtedly choose two of the three chambers in the Sky Corridor. As for the rest, the stronger ones would go to the Earth Corridor, and the remaining ones would have to go to the Mortal Corridor.
In the Mortal Corridor were the works left behind by the countless Elders of the Ancient Phoenix Clan. In the Realm of the Gods, there was a single Patriarch of the Ancient Phoenix Clan at one time. Moreover, because their lives were extremely long, all of the previous Patriarchs added together were probably only a few hundred. However, Elders were different. In every new generation of the Ancient Phoenix Clan, there were possibly dozens or even hundreds of Elders. Even if the totem stones they crafted here were their greatest works, those still wouldn't be able to compare with a Patriarch's.
As the red-robed Elder saw the mixed emotions of the young elites there, he coldly said, "Those who walk the road of martial arts should aim high, but they shouldn't bite off more than they can chew! Every Great Elder of my Ancient Phoenix Clan is a heaven-shaking existence within the Realm of the Gods. Every totem stone they leave behind, even though it may be inferior to that of a Patriarch's, is more than enough for you to meditate upon. If you can thoroughly enlighten yourself with them, then you will reach a comprehension of Laws equal to a previous Elder! Isn't that enough for you!?" the red-robed Elder asked in a chilly voice.
However, all of the martial artists present were thinking otherwise. They only had three days to meditate on these totem stones; just how much could they comprehend in that period of time?
If the Ancient Phoenix Totem Stones would be compared to gold ore while they were the gold diggers, then the amount of gold they could mine in three days would obviously be larger if it were from a bountiful gold mine rather than a barren one.
"Nuyan Ming, you choose first!" The red-robed Elder pointed at Lin Ming. "You must decide within two hours' time."
"Yes, Sir!" Lin Ming replied. Without further ado, he skipped past the Mortal and Earth Corridors, directly entering the Sky Corridor.
Seeing this, all the martial artists there were filled with envy. Although Huo Wenlong appeared calm, the truth was that he was feeling particularly nervous.
The Heaven Corridor had three totem stones, and these totem stones were also divided into those better ones and worse ones. Among them, there was one called the Burning Heaven Totem Stone. It had been left behind by the Ninth Patriarch of the Ancient Phoenix Clan. His nickname was Burning Heaven, and he had been one of the top 10 powerhouses throughout all of the Ancient Phoenix Clan's history. To take on such a nickname, his power could easily be imagined. And what was even rarer was that the Laws inherent to that totem stone were extremely suitable for Huo Wenlong. He had long desired to choose this totem stone, but if Lin Ming chosen it first, then Huo Wenlong would suffer a great loss.
Under everyone's gazes Lin Ming stepped into the Sky Corridor. The halls of Sky Corridor were 200 feet wide, three metal doors lined up on a wall. The first door had the image of a Phoenix Nirvana engraved onto it, along with two words – Crimson Divine. The second metal door had the engraved image of a Phoenix resting on a Parasol Tree, as well as two words – Sacred Flame, and the third door had the engraved image of a Phoenix flying through burning skies along with two words – Burning Heaven.
Lin Ming was startled just by the images carved upon these metal doors. These engravings, each had come from the hands of a peerless powerhouse. Otherwise, they wouldn't emit the energy of such formidable Laws.
Lin Ming decided to start with the Crimson Divine Totem Stone. He pushed open the metal door, entering the chamber. Behind the door was a square space, 200 feet in width and in length. There was nothing except for a 30-foot-high altar in the very center of the chamber. On top o of this altar was a carved stone totem the size of a square foot. There were many complex engravings on this plain gray stone. Looking upon it for the first time, Lin Ming could feel a faint force field covering it, similar to the Asura force field. This force field and the totem stone both contained traces of lines and images combined in a perfect manner; it was immeasurably mystical.
"This Senior Crimson Divine was definitely a powerhouse with a force field. He fused his Fire Laws with his force field and carved them into this totem stone. If I can thoroughly comprehend it then it will be of great help to me, especially since I have a force field. And more than one at that."
Lin Ming looked at this totem stone for two incense sticks' worth of time before reluctantly leaving the Crimson Divine chamber. He only had two hours; he couldn't stay in this chamber for too long.
The second chamber was the Sacred Flame Totem Stone. It was equally mystical, but it lacked the force field aspect. For this alone it was less suitable for Lin Ming than the Crimson Divine Totem Stone in the first room. After just an incense stick's worth of time he left this chamber to enter the third one. This was the chamber with the Burning Heaven Totem Stone.
This chamber was also 200 square feet, and the altar in the center was similar. However, the totem stone on this altar was a deep red, and on it there seemed to be hundreds upon hundreds of small flames intertwining with each other. It looked quite ordinary at first, but after staring at it for a while, Lin Ming could see that these small flames were moving. Each and every one of these flames contained a different Concept. As the several hundred flames gathered together, they became burning skies that could seemingly scorch away the endless worlds!
"What a powerful aura…" Lin Ming's eyebrows shot up. He could feel that the aura contained within this totem stone faintly surpassed the last two.
"Perhaps this totem stone is the most valuable." Lin Ming pondered for a moment, thinking about whether he wanted to choose the Crimson Divine Totem Stone or the Burning Heaven Totem Stone.
At this time, within Lin Ming's spiritual sea, Demonshine's drawling voice sounded out, "Lin Ming, I don't understand the Fire Laws within this totem stone, but this Saint knows the name of Burning Heaven. He is a peak character even in the Realm of the Gods, someone who far surpassed the Demon Emperor! As for those other two people, this Saint has never heard of them."
Lin Ming hesitated for a moment. "That sounds right, but… choosing a totem stone doesn't depend on just how strong the person who engraved it was, but whether the contents of that totem stone suit the individual…"
Lin Ming meditated on this totem stone for half an hour. Then, at that moment, he suddenly felt a faint throbbing feeling in the Heretical God Seed; it seemed as if the engravings on the Heretical God Seed seemed to grow.
"Mm?" Lin Ming was surprised. It was clear that the Heretical God Seed had an even higher fusion compatibility with this Burning Heaven Totem Stone!
The Heretical God Force was a cultivation method created by an ancient Evil God. A Supreme Elder from the Realm of the Gods had stumbled upon a massive lucky chance within the ancient ruins of this Evil God, thus obtaining the cultivation method manual. Afterwards, he had died before having enough time to thoroughly perceive it. From that point on, only Lin Ming was aware of the Heretical God Force.
As for who that Evil God was, Li Ming had no idea. But what he was sure about was that the Evil God was absolutely far more formidable than this Burning Heaven Senior. It was likely that the Evil God was an existence that stood at the highest peak of martial artists, a 'True God'.
With such a person, the cultivation methods left behind likely approached the very source of all Laws to a near infinite degree. Since the Heaven Burning Stone Totem was able to affect the Heretical G God Seed, that proved that the Heaven Burning Stone Totem approached the root of the Great Dao much more than the other two totem stones.
Compared to Lin Ming's own judgment, he was by far more convinced due to the Heretical God Seed. Not to mention, perceiving and understanding the process of how the Fire Laws and force field combined within the Crimson Divine Totem Stone was a very long process. It was by no means something done in a single step. He would have to meditate upon it for at least ten years, or perhaps even dozens of years to see any effect.
"I'll choose that one then!"
Lin Ming made a preliminary decision. He estimated the time and found that he still had a bit more than an hour's worth of time.
If it had taken him nearly an hour to look through three totem stones, then the others would have a much harder time, especially those martial artists who had to choose a totem stone from the Mortal Corridor. To find a suitable match among 20 totem stones, within two hours, would not be easy.
If their luck was bad, then it was likely they would regret the choice they made.
"I still have an hour, there's no need to hurry. Since there's no need to go to the Earth Corridor, I should go to the Chaos Corridor to have a look at what these totem stones forged in the primal forming chaos are like. I wonder if there's anything special about the traces of source energy left within…"
As Lin Ming thought this, he headed towards the Chaos Corridor.
Chapter 725 – Chaos Stone
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The Chaos Corridor was at the very center of all four corridors. It was also the narrowest and the smallest of the four corridors and was only 150 feet wide.
This corridor had three chambers. The doors of this chamber weren't made from red metal but rather rocks with an extremely ancient appearance.
These rocks didn't have any engravings on them but they emitted a primal breath that secretly startled Lin Ming.
"These should be ancient rocks formed at the very beginning of the universe. I wonder just how many countless years they've existed for."
Lin Ming muttered to himself as he opened the stone door. A 100 square foot room presented itself in front of Lin Ming. This entire chamber was covered with a light layer of black fog. As one looked deeper, one could see that this fog was actually somewhat similar to the black fog in the Eternal Demon Abyss; it was also formed from an incomparably rich accumulation of energy. However, this Chaos Chamber's black fog seemed to lack any sort of elemental attribute energy. Instead, it could be considered as 'void'.
In the center of the faint fog, there was an altar. This altar was made of black stone, and a foot long square stone was embedded right in its center. The traces of lines on this stone didn't seem as delicate and exquisite as Lin Ming had imagined. Instead, it looked to be very rough. The textures were varied; some were deep, some were shallow, and there were even some areas that were broken off.
As Lin Ming continued to look on but he didn't see anything special about this stone. It was apparent that the traces of source energy left within had already surpassed the scope of Lin Ming's understanding.
Legends said that during the forming of the universe, there was nothing but chaos origin energy. The trace lines on the chaos stone reflected the evolutionary process of the universe's source energy as it gradually transformed itself. This sort of chaos energy was also referred to as grandmist energy. Primeval entropy was chaos in itself.
Afterwards, this grandmist energy evolved, only then becoming the elemental energies of metal, wood, water, fire, earth, and all others. Thus, grandmist energy was considered the source of all energy.
As for martial artists, in the end, what they cultivated was energy. Whether it was body transformation, true essence, or demon essence, all of them were just different manifestations of energy.
But in perceiving various Laws and Concepts through meditation, that was understanding the root rules for utilizing these different energies. Higher level combat skills such as force fields, will attacks, and even soul attacks, were all different forms and applications of energy. If one could thoroughly understand the evolutionary rules of grandmist energy, then they could become aware of the very source of the Great Dao, thus becoming an existence within the Realm of the Gods with one of the deepest comprehension of Laws and Concepts.
"Lin Ming, this thing isn't something that the average person can understand. Not to mention that this Saint is just a wisp of a soul, but even if this Saint's complete soul was here, or even if this Saint's complete body was here, I would still find this thing incomprehensible."
Demonshine rarely admitted his own weaknesses. In truth, as a demon familiar, his perception was never that great to begin with.
However, Lin Ming didn't seem to hear Demonshine's words. He sat there in mediation, gazing upon the traces left behind on this chaos stone from the forming universe. For a long time, he sat there without uttering a single word.
"How is it?" Demonshine asked before immediately shutting up. He didn't know if Lin Ming had managed to comprehend anything.
Within Lin Ming's boundary, wanting to comprehend the source Laws from this chaos stone were near zero. However, miracles did happen.
Lin Ming meditated for an entire incense stick worth of time. Finally, he closed his eyes and
slowly said, "I am familiar with these lines. It feels like I've seen them somewhere before."
"Mm? That's impossible…"
"I really have seen it, it's just that I can't remember..." Lin Ming's first thoughts were of the Eternal Demon Abyss. Within the Eternal Demon Abyss, he had encountered a variety of chaotic scenarios and had seen many things. But, as he thought about it, nothing reminded him of this.
Just where had he seen this before?
"Lin Ming, then how will you choose? Will you choose this chaos stone or the Burning Heaven Totem Stone?" Demonshine asked.
"I will choose the Burning Heaven Totem Stone." Lin Ming decided to give up on the chaos stone. The Laws and principles contained within the chaos stone were simply far too mystical for the current him. Even if there was a familiar feeling of déjà vu from the chaos stone, it wasn't enough for him to grasp any chance of successfully perceiving it. If that was the case, then it was better for him to go with the Burning Heaven Totem Stone. With the support of the Heretical God Seed, perceiving the Burning Heaven Totem Stone should be much more beneficial."
Thinking like this, Lin Ming left the hall of corridors.
"You've chosen?" The red-robed Elder asked, "You still have half an hour. If you haven't decided yet then you may continue looking."
"Reporting to Senior, this junior has already chosen…" Lin Ming bowed. These words caused Huo Wenlong's heart to tighten. The young red dressed woman next to him, Huo Yu, was also tense.
Besides Lin Ming, these two people had the best results from the test. Huo Welong's comprehension of Laws was evaluated at the first-level B-grade, and Huo Yu was evaluated as a first-level C-grade.
Huo Wenlong was aiming for the Burning Heaven Totem Stone. Of the three totem stones in the Sky Corridor, it was the most valuable one. As for Huo Yu, she decided to choose the Crimson Divine Totem Stone. Its preciousness was only inferior to that of the Burning Heaven Totem Stone. Not just that, but the force field fused within it was very important for her. Huo Yu also had a kind of force field so this Crimson Divine Totem Stone would be very suitable for her. As long as Lin Ming didn't choose the Crimson Totem Stone then Huo Wenlong definitely wouldn't choose it either. This was because even if Huo Wenlong's talent was higher, he didn't have force field.
"Mm, what's your choice?" The red-robed Elder asked.
Lin Ming took a deep breath. He slowly and clearly said, "The Burning Heaven Totem Stone!"
As Lin Ming spoke, Huo Yu let out a sigh of relief. As for Huo Wenlong, his body stiffened and his complexion became extremely ugly.
The Burning Heaven Totem Stone! That choice just happened to collide with Huo Wenlong's!
Damn!
Huo Wenlong grit his teeth. In truth, he had already been expecting this. The Burning Heaven Totem Stone was the most valuable of the three totem stones in the Sky Corridor. Lin Ming had the highest chances of choosing that one.
However, expectations were different from reality. With the facts laid right in front of him, he felt a bit depressed. To not be able to choose the Burning Heaven Totem Stone now would greatly impact him.
"Mm." The red-robed Elder nodded. Lin Ming had made a good choice. The Burning Heaven Totem Stone was the most valuable of the three totem stones in the Sky Corridor, and even when compared to the top totem stones within the Ancient Phoenix Clan smelting trial sites in the Realm of the Gods, it wasn't too far off.
The red-robed Elder recorded Lin Ming's choice onto a jade slip and said, "Onto the next person. Huo Wenlong, it's your turn to choose."
"I understand." Huo Wenlong began walking forwards. Although he seemed calm on the surface, his heart was pained as if his own mother had died.
After a little less than an hour of time, Huo Wenlong came out and said, "I choose the Sacred Flame Totem Stone."
The Sacred Flame Totem Stone was slightly worse than the Crimson Divine Totem Stone. However,
since Huo Wenlong didn't possess a force field ability, the Crimson Divine Totem Stone wasn't well suited for him, thus he could only make this choice.
Huo Yu let out a light sigh of relief. She quickly power walked towards the Sky Corridor as if she were afraid that someone to steal away her Crimson Divine Totem Stone.
After an incense stick of time, Huo Yu came out. "Sir, I choose the Crimson Divine Totem Stone."
After Huo Yu, Huo Ping and the rest all chose their own totem stones from the Earth Corridor. As for the martial artists of the lower mortal realms, most of them had to choose from the Mortal Corridor.
This was a troublesome decision for them. To choose an appropriate totem stone from over 20 choices, was not a simple matter at all. Many people didn't have the chance to carefully consider their choice, thus there were some that chose inappropriate ones.
"Alright. Everyone may go close up in training now. You have three days of time. Three days from now, no matter how much you have perceived you must stop. Afterwards, I will naturally assess your results. Those who pass will obtain another chance to enlighten themselves. As for everyone else, they have failed the trial!
In the king level smelting trial, defeat didn't mean you would die. Rather, you would simply be eliminated from the first stage, completely losing any chance of advancing to the second stage of the king level smelting trial.
After the smelting trial began, Lin Ming, Huo Wenlong, and Huo Yu all went towards the Sky Corridor. After a moment of silence, Huo Wenlong walked into the Sacred Flame training chamber without another word, while Lin Ming entered the Burning Heaven training chamber.
These three days would be the key to success or failure.
Lin Ming had already seen the lines on the Burning Heaven Totem Stone. They were like hundreds of tiny flames, none of them the same, but all of them contained deep and profound mysteries.
Lin Ming looked carefully and discovered that when any two random flames combined together, there would be a change. If three flames joined together, there would be another change. Four… five… six, the more flames that gathered, the more changes there were and every flame also had a different change. If several hundred flames gathered together then the possibilities were endless.
"Patriarch Burning Heaven is truly worthy of a being called one of the 10 greatest powerhouses of the Ancient Phoenix Clan. I only have three days to look at this totem stone, but thoroughly perceiving it in this time period is simply impossible. I shouldn't bite off more than I can chew. I'll choose the smallest flame line and try to comprehend the simple changes there first."
As Lin Ming thought this, he entered into the ethereal martial intent, completely immersing himself into gaining insights.
In this state of fascination, the small flame seemed to turn into a fiery spear. As the spear swayed to the beat of the flames, the chilling spear point seemed to launch wave after wave of offensive attacks.
Unconsciously, the subtle totem engravings on Lin Ming's Heretical God Seed began to change, becoming increasingly clear and profound.
After entering into the ethereal martial intent, Lin Ming wasn't able to sense the passage of time. When the totem engravings on the Heretical God Seed seemed to enter into a new stage, the metal door to Lin Ming's training chamber suddenly burst open.
A stern voice sounded out, "Time is up. Everyone must exit now.
Hu -!
Lin Ming had been awakened from his meditative state, and the incomplete enlightenment had also been interrupted.
"Three days already?"
Lin Ming was surprised. He felt as if even one hour hadn't passed.
What a pity! It would have been perfect if he had a few more days. As Lin Ming was thinking, he found that totem engravings on the Heretical God Seed had turned into a circle with a faint flow of light spinning around it. It was clearly an improvement over the previous totem image.
"
With these three days along with having gazed upon the Ancient Phoenix Testament, my comprehension of fire-attribute Laws has been considerably enhanced. I wonder just what degree my Concept of Fire has reached now…"
Lin Ming very much wished to find someone skilled in the Concept of Fire to compete with. At this moment, a voice sounded out once more.
"Everyone, meet outside the hall of corridors!"
As Lin Ming recalled what was happening as he walked towards the main hall. Outside, he could see that many people were gathering, expressions of confusion on their faces as if they had awoken from a drunken stupor. They all had their eyebrows knitted together, apparently trying to estimate the harvests they had made.
The red-robed Elder from before was already waiting here. He said, "You all have ten days to go back and digest your harvests so far. Afterwards, you will gather back here. I will continue with the test. Those who do not pass will be eliminated!"