Wu Zheng soon arrived at Wu Hua's house, his expression calm and focused. He wasted no time in requesting the two techniques he had chosen, the Song of Inferno and the Moon Step Technique.
Wu Hua nodded and quickly left for the pavilion. Within five minutes, she returned, a collection of scrolls in her hands. "Here are the complete techniques," she said, handing them to Wu Zheng.
He accepted them respectfully, sensing the weight of the knowledge they contained. Wu Hua added, "I've included some pointers on their application, which I recommend you review."
After a moment of silence, Wu Zheng shared his conversation with his father about his decision to enter a year of seclusion. Wu Hua's brows furrowed slightly at the news. "A whole year without seeing you?" Her voice held a hint of reluctance.
Yet, Wu Zheng's unwavering determination for cultivation softened her resolve. After some gentle persuasion, she finally relented. "If this is truly what you wish, then I will support your decision."
Two days later, Wu Zheng set off for his cave. The journey was familiar and swift, and he reached the entrance without delay. As he surveyed his surroundings, he noted signs of previous visitors. Someone had indeed come to check on the cave after his recent breakthrough. Given the whispers about his advancement to the second stage, it was no surprise. They likely departed after finding nothing of significance.
Knowing that there might be observers, Wu Zheng refrained from opening his independent space. Instead, he focused intently on mastering the Song of Inferno and Moon Step techniques. He spent three days diligently honing his skills, advancing to the third stage of both techniques. He decided to push for the fourth stage after solidifying his foundation.
After two weeks of intensive cultivation, Wu Zheng felt ready to break through to the fifth stage of the Qi Condensation Realm. Before proceeding, he scanned his surroundings once more. Satisfied there were no lingering eyes upon him, he finally entered his independent space.
With a surge of energy, he broke through to the fifth stage. Renewed determination coursed through him. He had eleven months of seclusion ahead and aimed to reach the peak of the Qi Condensation Realm before its end.
Meanwhile, in a distant corner of the Huang Kingdom, two figures sat opposite each other at a lavishly set table. The room was adorned with vibrant paintings of serene landscapes, adding an air of tranquility to the tense meeting.
On one side sat Jiang Lu, the clan leader of the Jiang clan. His bronze skin gleamed under the light, and his curly hair framed a face filled with ambition. Opposite him was a mysterious figure, shrouded in darkness, obscuring his features entirely.
"Are you prepared?" Jiang Lu asked, his tone steady. "The Hundred High-Tier Battle is approaching."
"Yes, we are prepared," the cloaked figure replied, his voice calm and measured. "But you must remember your promise."
"Of course," Jiang Lu responded, leaning forward, intrigued. "It will benefit us both."
After a moment of silence, the mysterious figure continued, "However, I have a request. It seems to me that your clan stands to gain more from our alliance than I do."
Jiang Lu's brows furrowed, and he stood abruptly. "Are you attempting to take advantage of our cooperation?"
"Wait," the figure said smoothly, remaining composed. "You should consider my request before reacting. You desire power, yet I seek the opposite. This can work in our favor."
After a moment of contemplation, Jiang Lu sat back down, curiosity piqued. "What is it you want?"
Outside the room, Jiang Min and Jiang Bao stood in hushed anticipation. "Do you think the negotiation will go smoothly?" Jiang Bao asked, a hint of worry in his voice.
"I don't know," Jiang Min replied. "But it should be fine."
"I hope everything goes well," Jiang Bao murmured, eyes fixed on the door.
Inside, the mysterious figure leaned forward, a hint of amusement in his tone. "Now, tell me, is my request too much to ask?"
Jiang Lu, deep in thought, finally replied," I can give it a thought."
"You wanted to challenge the Huang family; does it matter whether you take on the Wei family or the Jade Pure Sect first?"
After considering this, Jiang Lu nodded slowly. "Alright, I agree."
A smile broke across the figure's hidden face. "Then we should celebrate this momentous occasion."
Jiang Lu responded, his voice resolute, "We will indeed celebrate—but only after we subdue the Wu and Asghar clans."
"Consider it done," the mysterious figure replied, confidence lacing his tone. "With our combined strength, we will subdue the Wu clan with minimal casualties on both sides."