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While conducting the anti-Sui Yang operation, Su Qing stumbled upon an unexpected delight. Despite their near-immortality, he discovered that Sui Yang entities' energy could indeed be weakened. Remarkably, weakening their energy triggered his innate Talent [Kill].
Su Qing pondered over this revelation.
Perhaps due to Sui Yang's ability to fragment further, whenever enough energy was depleted to form a new shard, it effectively counted as eliminating one.
[Bronya: Huh? Is that reasonable?]
[Herta: Somewhere between logical and illogical.]
[Herta: If you extract part of a Sui Yang's energy, under suitable conditions, it can indeed give birth to a new Sui Yang. That makes some sense.]
[Herta: But what I really want to criticize is his golden Talent...]
[Herta: Enhancing strength by defeating any enemy? How does he extract this energy? And how are completely different types of energies converted? Lastly, how does Su Qing even absorb such energy at the end? There's a myriad of questions here.]
[Sushang: Don't understand, feeling dizzy ???.]
[Seele: So complicated, feeling dizzy ???.]
[Ruan Mei (smiling): @Herta, before delving into specifics, don't you think the simulation itself is already the most illogical aspect?]
[Herta (sighing): I've noticed long ago; his time-traveling ability surpasses all current understanding.]
[Herta: It may be called a 'Joyful Simulation,' but Aha seems to have only added a touch of amusement. Even Aha doesn't possess such capabilities.]
[Herta: (deep sigh) In any case, if given the chance, I truly wish to thoroughly study Su Qing and understand how he achieves such absurdity.]
[Stelle: hhh, Su Qing's absurdity makes Herta sigh.]
Moreover, due to Sui Yang being pure energy entities,
the quantity and quality of essence absorbed from defeating them were significantly higher compared to other enemies.
With a subtle thought, Su Qing commanded a flying sword inscribed with a Ten-Lords Commission talisman to pierce through the nearby Sui Yang fragment.
Instantly, this Sui Yang's flames weakened considerably.
Su Qing let out a contented sigh.
The feeling of power enhancement was akin to drinking ice-cold cola on a scorching summer day—simply invigorating.
Originally, combating Sui Yang fragments was a laborious task. Now, it had unexpectedly turned into a form of enjoyment.
[Qingque: It's like a self-serve feast now!]
He and Jing Yuan split up, while members of the Ten-Lords Commission nearby sealed the weakened Sui Yang fragments as they went.
For Su Qing, progress was largely smooth.
The only hiccup occurred when encountering an exceptionally fierce Sui Yang shard. It took three flying swords for him to defeat it. When the Ten-Lords Commission attempted to seal the fragment, there was a mishap, allowing it to escape.
[Huohuo: This ferocious Sui Yang, why does it look somewhat like...]
As the anti-Sui Yang operation neared completion, the area under Su Qing's responsibility was almost fully cleared.
Just as Su Qing planned to conclude her work, she unexpectedly spotted a Sui Yang with unusually distinct flames, behaving furtively.
For two... rather, one person and one Sui Yang, their eyes met for a brief moment.
Little did they know, this glance would span across a thousand years.
Phantylia immediately turned and fled.
Having witnessed Su Qing defeat even the most powerful Liaoyuan fragment, Phantylia, cunning as she was, had no intention of confronting her head-on.
Su Qing frowned, sending out her longsword swiftly.
[Stelle: Hmmph! Trying to escape?]
As classified by the Xianzhou, all Sui Yang were deemed Abundant Evils. Regardless of whether it was a Liaoyuan fragment or not, Su Qing resolved to eliminate each one without hesitation.
From the audience's perspective, the flying sword pierced directly through Phantylia's form.
In reality, however, Phantylia lacked a physical body; she existed merely as a ghostly flame. As the talisman-adorned sword passed through, the ghost fire noticeably dimmed.
Eh?
Feeling the energy harvested, Su Qing's furrowed brow smoothed, her expression brightening with delight.
The quality of this Sui Yang was remarkably unique—almost like...
Almost like taking the first sip of ice-cold cola on a scorching summer day!
[Sparkle: Hahahaha!! Phantylia: So I'm now a premium energy drink, huh?]
[Fu Xuan: Amused. Naturally, a Sui Yang destined to become Lord Ravager must possess superior quality.]
Phantylia's flames dimmed slightly, her anger flaring anew.
Humans. Did they really think she was easy prey?
As a Sui Yang, her nature was inherently ruthless and venomous. Phantylia initially planned to turn around and confront Su Qing.
However, upon seeing Su Qing's face, her fury abruptly subsided by several degrees.
Huh?
What does that gaze mean—the way you're looking at me? As a Sui Yang, I'm meant to consume the emotions of sentient beings; for us, human feelings serve as sustenance...
But now...
Why do your eyes sparkle like you've spotted some delectable treat when you see me?!
This is absurd—what madness?! Are all people from Xianzhou this peculiar?!
Phantylia lost interest in fighting and turned to flee once more.
As she ran, Su Qing relentlessly pursued her.
[Sushang: Ha ha, now it's humans chasing ghosts.]
[Stelle: Let me describe his state right now: "Delicious Sui Yang? Don't run away."]
[March 7th: ? Oh man, look how scared Phantylia is! This is hilarious.]
Cursed be!
Will you stop chasing me already!?
Phantylia fled hastily, consumed by fury and tinged with a faint yet inexplicable fear—truly unnerving.
She had barely managed to seize a few fragments of Sui Yang amidst the chaos. However, after several strikes from Su Qing's flying sword, she now found herself even weaker than before!
Glancing back once more, she memorized his face.
Human! I remember you now!
Someday, revenge will surely be mine!
True to her nature, Phantylia proved resourceful despite being marked as delectable prey by Su Qing. Despite their pursuit, she ultimately escaped.
The primary reason was that the Ten-Lords Commission members responsible for sealing the Sui Yang simply couldn't keep up with their speed.
As for Phantylia's future trials, becoming Lord Ravager, and returning for vengeance—that is another story...
Ah...
Su Qing sighed regretfully.
Unfortunately, this unique Sui Yang still managed to slip away. After tallying it up, his flying sword had only harvested about two-thirds of its energy...
[Stelle: Seriously, two-thirds isn't enough? Phantylia: Can you act human, please?!]
Having completed their respective tasks, Su Qing and Jing Yuan regrouped. Previously, although they were both members of the Valiant Guard, their interactions had been strictly professional, with little personal exchange. However, since their meeting at the small courtyard, they discovered they genuinely enjoyed conversing with each other.
Jing Yuan originally hailed from a family within the Realm-Keeping Commission but chose to defy expectations. Unwilling to lead a predictable life, he disregarded his family's opposition and joined the cloud riders instead.
While Su Qing excelled in strength and combat prowess, Jing Yuan was renowned for his wisdom and strategic acumen.
For instance, during their recent encounter with the Sui Yang, Su Qing had personally taken charge, reveling in the thrill of battle. In contrast, Jing Yuan ordered his troops to employ a pincer strategy, creating a pocket formation that lured the enemy straight into their trap.
Su Qing praised him, saying, "Jing Yuan, although you apprenticed under the swordmaster, it seems your aptitudes align more with becoming a general."
Unexpectedly, Jing Yuan shook his head immediately. "Let's not talk about that, let's just drop it."
Puzzled, Su Qing asked, "Why?"
Jing Yuan first glanced around cautiously. "First, promise me you'll keep our next conversation strictly confidential."
Su Qing nodded. "Rest assured, my discretion is impeccable."
With a wistful expression, Jing Yuan revealed the truth, "In my opinion, being a general may look impressive from afar, but in reality, it's the most arduous job on Xianzhou."
"You're always the first to step up when there's trouble, and likewise, the first to shoulder blame."
"Year-round hard work without respite, rushing wherever duty calls. Not only must one oversee battles, but every matter, big or small within Luofu, demands careful attention." Jing Yuan clicked his tongue. "I've always detested complications; if I became a general, my Demonic Shade Avatar would likely activate centuries ahead of schedule."
Upon hearing this, Su Qing chuckled, "No wonder you wanted secrecy. If General Teng Xiao caught wind of these sentiments, he'd surely haul you to the practice field for a beating."
Jing Yuan chuckled as well. "Ah, the general has his hands full right now, dealing with recent conflicts between Chiming and the foxfolk. It's giving him quite a headache."
They exchanged glances and burst out laughing together.
[Even the chat laughed.]
[Stelle: Oh, if only Jing Yuan knew he'd become a general for seven centuries—would he still be able to laugh then?]
[Fu Xuan: Hmph, why don't you let me take on that role instead? I wouldn't mind such a task.]
[Qingque: Truly reminiscent of the saying, those ashore wish to venture forth, while those at sea long to return...]
Upon hearing this exchange,
Su Qing rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I must admit, Jing Yuan, your perspective makes sense. Perhaps I should consider shifting my aspirations, just like you did."
"Hey! No, no, no!" Jing Yuan hastily waved his hands. "Don't joke about that. I'm actually looking forward to when you become a general, so we can both shed our official duties and become Galaxy Rangers together."
Surprised, Su Qing asked, "Is that truly your aspiration?"
Jing Yuan nodded. "Roaming the Galaxy, carefree amidst the clouds—it sounds incredibly enviable, embodying true freedom. Only wonder if I'll ever get such an opportunity." He then turned the question back, "What about you? Apart from being a cloud rider, do you have any other ambitions?"
Su Qing replied candidly, "It doesn't matter to me; as long as I can slay demonic entities, it's all the same wherever I am."
Jing Yuan expressed his admiration for this sentiment.
Through their lively conversation, they gained a deeper understanding of each other.
With their mission accomplished, it was time to sound the retreat.
Upon returning, with nothing pressing on hand, Jing Yuan engaged Su Qing in several games of Star Formation Chess.
Compared to Su Qing and Jingliu, Jing Yuan wasn't particularly skilled in combat. However, when it came to Star Formation Chess, Su Qing often found himself losing more than winning against Jing Yuan.
Whenever Su Qing sought advice, Jing Yuan generously provided insights, allowing him to gain much from these exchanges.
***
Crafting weapons for Su Qing turned out to be quite intricate for Yingxing.
Initially, the plan was to forge just one weapon. But after understanding Su Qing's capabilities, it became clear that a single flying sword wouldn't fully unleash his potential.
Yingxing pondered, "Considering how you assisted me during the last sword casting, this time I'll forge two for you as a token of gratitude."
Su Qing summoned a third flying sword.
Yingxing gritted his teeth, "Fine, then let's make it three."
Four flying swords circled around Su Qing, moving harmoniously without interference, displaying remarkable dexterity.
Yingxing clenched his jaw again, "Four... alright..."
A fifth flying sword, somewhat innocently, wavered into view.
Yingxing closed his eyes, exasperated, "Five... No! Just tell me, what is the maximum number you can control effectively?!"
In the end, after repeatedly adjusting the budget, they ended up forging a total of six weapons!
Two heavy swords and four long swords.
This endeavor had nearly depleted Yingxing's treasured materials entirely.
[Stelle: Sharpblade Bro: Uh-oh! We fell for it!!]
[Seele: Hahahaha!!]
[Silver Wolf: ??]
[Kafka: (laughs)]
Naturally, Su Qing wouldn't let Yingxing bear the cost without compensation. Despite Yingxing's insistence that it wasn't necessary, Su Qing insisted on providing ample payment, well beyond what was expected.
Regardless of wealth, certain materials have value but scarce availability in the market. Undoubtedly, Yingxing had truly invested heavily this time.
On the day the weapons were completed, Yingxing handed the swords to Su Qing with a hint of reluctance. "Use them well; don't let these blades go to waste."
Yingxing anticipated some jest from Su Qing.
To his surprise, Su Qing solemnly accepted the swords. "Of course." He gently caressed the blade surfaces. "From now on, every time these swords slay a fiend on the battlefield, half the credit will be yours," Su Qing said earnestly, looking up. "Thank you very much. Although our backgrounds differ, our aspirations align. I will wield these effectively, pursuing and eliminating fiends until my last breath."
His words resonated with deep sincerity.
Having survived the destruction of his homeland by Abundance, Yingxing's journey thus far had been one of relentless struggle. He forged weapons with the singular purpose of eliminating these abominations.
Sensing Su Qing's determination, Yingxing set aside his arrogance and slowly nodded. "...Very well. I know you will."
An inexplicable bond of friendship began to flourish between them!
On the sidelines, Bai Heng rubbed his shoulder, bemused. "By the way, do friendships among men always form so swiftly and intensely?"
[Stelle: What's this called again? Men's romance, right?!]
[Seele: Stelle, you understand such things?]
[Stelle: Of course! We're both star nucleus essences; nobody knows Su Qing better than me!]
The six flying swords were named "Non-Grasp," reflecting their original design intent—to not be held, differing from conventional swords.
Comprising two heavy swords and four longswords, they retained minimal grips for exceptional circumstances. However, prioritizing flight, their blades and hilts featured streamlined designs, ensuring reduced wind resistance while maintaining sharpness.
Among these, the two heavy swords were notably broad and hefty, with sections specifically crafted for standing, enabling aerial control through sword riding.
It was truly a bespoke creation tailored to Su Qing's needs.
After witnessing Su Qing's combat style, Yingxing gained new insights into weapon forging.
Yingxing's approach to weapon forging had evolved with new ideas.
While the swords used by Xianzhou soldiers couldn't employ such high-quality materials or intricate sword techniques, it was feasible to make slight modifications. Adding simple auto-targeting capabilities and basic maneuvers to their weapons seemed attainable...
[Qingque: Wow, now that's real AI combat! So some modern weapons originated from this time!]
[Bronya: It seems Su Qing indirectly advanced Xianzhou's weaponry development, right? Expect quite a few more points during the settlement.]
***
Another small gathering approached. This time, Jing Yuan organized it, but at the last minute, unforeseen matters arose on the day itself.
Yingxing, engrossed in developing new weapons, had already declined, aiming to prove himself to the old guard of the Artisanship Commission. Coincidentally, Dan Feng also faced clan affairs and couldn't attend. Bai Heng informed Jingliu that the fox race had a celebration today, which she had forgotten about.
As a result, when the appointed date arrived, Jingliu realized that only she and Su Qing could make it to the gathering.
Stepping into the courtyard, she didn't immediately spot Su Qing. Sensing something, Jingliu instinctively looked up and found him perched atop the roof ridge.
Su Qing had recently been nurturing "Non-Grasp" with his spiritual energy and was currently familiarizing himself with its use. The courtyard space proved insufficient, so having arrived early and seeing no one else yet, he effortlessly leaped onto the roof. There, he summoned several swords and casually directed them to fly around.
When Jingliu raised her gaze, she saw...
Su Qing leaned against the eaves of the building, bathed in moonlight, his silhouette seemingly etched like a shadow cutout.
At the same time, several graceful streaks of sword light continuously circled around him.
[Qingque: Wow, this scene is seriously epic!]
[Stelle: A Sword Immortal under the moonlight!]
[Firefly: Ahh!?! No way!! So cool, I'm about to faint!]
[Silver Wolf: Look at you getting all excited. (Frantically screenshotting) (And starting recording)]
[Kafka:]
[Himeko:]
[Silver Wolf found it odd that others remained silent, but after a moment:]
[Kafka: @Silver Wolf, I know you're taking screenshots and recording. Please send me a copy later.]
[Himeko: Yes, @Silver Wolf, thank you. Could you also send one to me?]
[Silver Wolf: Oh man!!]
[Silver Wolf: Now I see why you weren't saying anything - just waiting to reap the benefits, right?!]
[Silver Wolf: No way, not sharing!]
[Sparkle: ?? Did you just openly admit to recording?]
[Firefly: I want a copy too! I know @Silver Wolf, being kind-hearted and generous, would be happy to share!]
[Kafka: (laughs) @Silver Wolf, I know you're Galaxy's reliable teammate—you won't disappoint me, right?]
[Himeko: Indeed. Now I realize that Silver Wolf is truly a worthy and admirable opponent.]
[Sparkle: Hahahahahaha!! All these comments are outrageous, but Himeko's takes the cake! Are we trying to trick kids here?!]
[Stelle: Amused.]
[Seele: Absolutely hilarious.]
[Silver Wolf: ...Can't take it anymore; my skin's breaking out in goosebumps. Do you even believe what you're saying yourselves?]
[In the end, Silver Wolf still shared the file.]
[Seeing the download count skyrocket nearly instantaneously, Silver Wolf wisely held his tongue to avoid further backlash.]
Within the small courtyard, Jingliu gazed at the figure perched on the roof, momentarily lost in thought.
She suddenly realized—this seemed to be her first time alone with Su Qing.