After Xiao Tian and the others arrived at the gathering site where disciples from the Ten Sacred Realms had assembled, they found themselves standing before a grand and imposing structure known as the Sacred Arena.
The Sacred Arena was an ancient battleground, its history stretching back over a billion years. This revered site had long been a place where the chosen of the Ten Sacred Realms—heirs of the divine and prodigies from across the vast continents and sacred lands—gathered to duel. Here, they sought to prove their worth, select worthy adversaries, and determine champions who would bring glory to their realms. Each combatant represented not only the strength of their sect but also the pinnacle of their generation, standing as the most formidable among the youth of their respective lands.
The First Grand Elder spoke solemnly:
"We must first register to participate in this grand competition. Each sect and holy land may submit only ten disciples. Every sacred domain has sent their most exceptional young talents to represent their lands, and among these, the ten strongest individuals have already made their names known across the realms. Their names and sects are as follows:
1. Lóng Tiān (龙天) from Qīng Lóng Gǔ (青龙谷)
2. Bái Yào (白曜) from Bái Yào Yáng (白曜阳)
3. Fēng Lín (风霖) from Fēng Lín Jìng (风霖境)
4. Zǐ Róng (紫荣) from Zǐ Róng Chéng (紫荣城)
5. Yù Hán (玉寒) from Yù Hán Diàn (玉寒殿)
6. Zhào Wēi (兆威) from Zhào Wēi Tǎ (兆威塔)
7. Lì Qiáng (力强) from Lì Qiáng Yù (力强域)
8. Yáng Zhēn (阳真) from Yáng Zhēn Jiè (阳真界)
9. Lán Xīn (蓝心) from Lán Xīn Hǎi (蓝心海)
10. Méi Huā (梅花) from Méi Huā Yuán (梅花园)
Memorize these names and the holy lands they represent well. Each of these individuals stands at the pinnacle of power among the disciples of their respective sacred domains. They have all attained the Seventh Realm of the of Creation, Peak Stage, and many of them are but a step away from ascending to the Eighth Realm—the Divine Realm of Wuji (无极).
Moreover, their strength surpasses most of the sects that have come to register for this competition. These are the ones who set the standard for supremacy in this gathering."
---
Upon hearing this, Xiao Tian and his companions were utterly astonished. The sheer might of the disciples from the Ten Sacred Domains far exceeded anything they could have imagined.
After completing the registration process, Xiao Tian and his companions proceeded to the announcement platform within the Sacred Duel Arena. This gathering was arranged to outline the competition's rules and ensure no acts of fraud or deceit would take place.
When they arrived at the designated location, they were greeted by a vast crowd of cultivators from various sects and regions, including those from the same continent as Xiao Tian. Many faces were unfamiliar, and it was clear this was the first time many of these groups had encountered one another. Among the sects present, one in particular caught Xiao Tian's attention—the Heavenly Sword Sect. This sect was led by Jiang Xiao Lan, the very woman who had annulled her engagement to him when he first arrived in this world.
Xiao Tian's gaze grew cold as he observed the members of the Heavenly Sword Sect. To him, they exuded an air of arrogance and treachery. Though he bore no immediate intention of seeking trouble, he silently vowed to defend himself if they dared provoke him. The broken engagement had tarnished his reputation and given rise to numerous false rumors, a slight he would not easily forgive. Deep down, he resolved that should he face Jiang Xiao Lan during the duels, he would show her no mercy.
---
Moments later, the voice of an elderly man echoed across the arena, commanding respect from all present:
"Greetings, competitors. I am Xie Bai Shan (Xiè Bái Shān), the overseer and arbiter of this sacred competition. It is my duty to explain the rules of the tournament. Take heed: anyone found violating these rules will face immediate execution, and their sect will be wiped from existence. If you value the survival of your sect, do not dare to cheat."
The elder continued, his tone resolute and unwavering:
"The rules are as follows:
1. Life and death in the arena are absolute. No outside interference will be tolerated, not even from the Holy Domains. Should any interference occur, the offending domain will be barred from participating in this tournament for the next 10,000 years.
2. Impersonation of eligible participants is strictly forbidden. If we discover anyone disguising themselves or attempting to join under false pretenses, they will be executed immediately. This includes individuals of excessive cultivation attempting to infiltrate the tournament for personal gain or resources.
3. The tournament welcomes both practitioners of the righteous path and the demonic path. We do not discriminate based on race, origin, or lineage—be you human, demon, or otherwise, all are eligible to compete under equal terms.
4. Participants may use high-grade weapons, spiritual artifacts, and medicinal pills to enhance their strength during the battles. Such tools are permitted and encouraged.
These are the rules. Remember them well. You now have five days to prepare for the competition. Return to your quarters, gather your strength, and be ready to convene here once more in five days."
With that, the elder's voice fell silent, and the crowd began to disperse, each competitor preparing themselves for the fierce trials ahead.
"It seems we still have five days to prepare. We'll need to gather provisions and ready ourselves for what's to come. Judging by the atmosphere, this competition will undoubtedly claim countless lives."
---
Not long after, the First Grand Elder addressed the group:
"From this point forward, you must handle matters on your own. I must return to the sect to report on the situation. Take care of yourselves, and may your paths be safe."
Before his departure, the participants respectfully bowed to the First Grand Elder, who then left without further delay.
Following his departure, the group disbanded. They had no bonds, no shared purpose beyond the tournament, and most of them didn't even know each other's names. Only two or three individuals chose to remain together, while the rest parted ways, each heading in their own direction to prepare for the trials ahead.
Xiao Tian decided to part ways with the others and found himself an inn nearby for temporary shelter. With only five days left to prepare for the upcoming tournament, he resolved to use this time wisely. His plan was to gather information and train his Ninefold Demon Body technique until he reached the peak of the Seventh Realm. Only then would he feel confident in his ability to survive the fierce competition ahead.
---
"Five days... That's all the time I have. I must push my cultivation base and my Ninefold Demon Body to the utmost limit. After that, I'll seek out the herbs necessary to refine elixirs that can enhance my willpower to its peak. Without that, I'd be no better than trash in this competition, destined to fall like the weaklings who dare to challenge the truly strong. I cannot afford to be careless, and I won't trust anyone here. Not a single soul.
"Enough thinking. It's time to move. First, I need to gather information—critical knowledge about this place, its people, and its rules. Without it, I might unknowingly cross the wrong individual or provoke a powerful faction. The best starting point is to buy information. Surely, in a place like this, there are those who trade in secrets."
With that, Xiao Tian left the inn, his mind set on uncovering the knowledge that could be the key to his survival.
Xiao Tian entered a grand establishment, one of the most renowned places in the region. This place was known as the Yue Mei Pavilion, a combination of a courtesan house and one of the top gambling halls in the land. Its fame wasn't just due to its luxuries, but also because it was a hub for valuable information.
Here, secrets were a commodity, and with enough silver or gold taels—or rare resources—anyone could obtain what they needed. The price, however, matched the value of the information. The more critical or useful the knowledge, the higher the cost.
As Xiao Tian walked in, he observed the extravagant decor and the bustling atmosphere. His gaze lingered on the patrons, a mix of powerful cultivators, merchants, and rogues, all seeking pleasure, profit, or power. He knew that acquiring reliable information here would cost him, but it was a necessary investment if he wanted to survive the tournament and gain an edge over his competitors.
"Let's see what secrets Yue Mei Pavilion has to offer," he muttered under his breath, his expression calm but his resolve firm.
When Xiao Tian stepped into the grand Yue Mei Pavilion, he was promptly greeted by an attendant. She was a slender woman clad in a tight-fitting dress that accentuated her perfect figure. Her charm was undeniable, and it was certain that any man who laid eyes on her would find himself captivated. Introducing herself as Yue Ling, she inquired with a soft smile, "Might I ask, honored guest, whether you have come to partake in gambling or to indulge in the company of our fair maidens?"
Xiao Tian's expression remained composed as he replied, "I have come to purchase information." Upon hearing this, Yue Ling nodded with a polite demeanor and said, "In that case, please follow me, honored guest."
As they walked through the corridors of the pavilion, Yue Ling turned to him and asked, "Forgive me for the delay in asking, but may I know the esteemed name of our guest?" Without hesitation, Xiao Tian responded, "My name is Xiao Tian." He spoke his name without fear, confident that such a renowned establishment would not carelessly divulge the identity of its patrons. To betray such trust would tarnish its reputation irreparably.
Yue Ling smiled at his response, remarking, "What a fitting name for someone of your stature. It exudes strength and presence." Xiao Tian, unfazed by her flattery, replied curtly, "It is but a name. I am here solely for information." Yue Ling, sensing his indifference, fell silent and led him onward.
Before long, they arrived at a lavish chamber, where Yue Ling stopped and gestured forward. "We have arrived, honored guest. The exchange of information will take place within. Please, step inside." Xiao Tian inclined his head slightly in thanks before proceeding through the ornate doorway.
The interior of the room astonished him. Decorated with opulent furnishings and treasures, it exuded the air of a wealthy noble's residence rather than a simple information exchange. His eyes quickly settled on a striking woman seated at the central table. Her crimson hair flowed like a river of fire, and her sharp red eyes glimmered with intelligence and allure. She was breathtaking—far surpassing Yue Ling in beauty and elegance. Her tall, shapely figure was mesmerizing, making even the word "perfection" seem insufficient.
Xiao Tian studied her silently, his thoughts swirling. Is this truly the one in charge of information? Such a woman in such a place... This pavilion's reputation as one of the top establishments in the land certainly makes sense now. Yet he brushed aside his musings, focusing on his purpose.
As he reached the table, he noticed a single ornate chair awaiting him. He remained standing, silently observing. The crimson-haired woman noticed his hesitation and spoke in a melodic voice, "Please, honored guest, be seated." Xiao Tian complied, taking the seat as the woman introduced herself. "I am Yue Er. It is a pleasure to meet you, Young Master Xiao Tian."
Xiao Tian inclined his head slightly. "Likewise, Lady Yue Er. I have come to acquire information. Specifically, I wish to know about the upcoming competition in the Ten Sacred Territories, as well as resources and methods to enhance one's cultivation base and comprehension. Do you have such information available?"
Yue Er's lips curved into a confident smile. "We possess knowledge of all kinds, Young Master. If it exists, we can provide it—provided the price is right. For such sought-after details, only rare treasures or significant wealth will suffice. You may offer any resources of value you possess."
Without a word, Xiao Tian reached into his spatial ring, retrieving a pile of gleaming beast cores—over a hundred of them. These were the cores of eighth-tier beasts he had slain during his time in the Thunder Beast Mountains. The sheer quantity formed a small mountain on the table, radiating a powerful aura.
Yue Er's crimson eyes widened in astonishment. For someone at the Alchemical Transformation Realm to possess this many eighth-tier beast cores... could he be the scion of a great power? She quickly composed herself, her intrigue growing.
Out of the blue, Yue Er spoke, her voice tinged with curiosity, "Young Master, if I may be so bold, where did you come across such a vast number of eighth-tier beast cores?"
Xiao Tian's response carried an air of mystery as he said, "I had thought that this esteemed establishment refrained from prying into the personal affairs of its clients."
Hearing his reply, Yue Er hastily waved her hands in denial, her tone flustered. "No, no, not at all! Rest assured, we have no desire to inquire about our clients' private matters. Should you find it inconvenient to answer, we would never insist. We merely wish to finalize a mutually beneficial agreement with you."
Xiao Tian nodded slightly and said, "Very well. Please proceed."
Yue Er composed herself and explained, "If you are willing to provide us with an additional 1,000 eighth-tier beast cores, we shall grant you the highest privileges our Yue Mei Pavilion has to offer. You will be allowed to choose three priceless treasures from our vault—be it divine weapons, masterfully refined pills, or ancient cultivation manuals, whether they pertain to the spirit or the body. Moreover, you will receive an 80% discount on all purchases for a full year. What say you, Young Master?"
Xiao Tian was inwardly astonished upon hearing her proposal. The privileges she described were nothing short of extraordinary. To be granted access to Yue Mei Pavilion's treasures, coupled with an 80% discount, was akin to stepping into a paradise tailor-made for him. Yet, despite his excitement, Xiao Tian maintained an unreadable expression.
Feigning deliberation, he remained silent for a moment before saying, "I accept your offer, Lady Yue Er. However, do you have a means to formalize this agreement? Perhaps a vow or a written contract that both parties might adhere to?"
Yue Er's face lit up with a confident smile. "Of course, we possess a high-grade contract scroll. It records the oaths of both parties and sends them to the will of the heavens. This divine force will bear witness to our pact, ensuring that neither of us can violate it. Should either party attempt to break the vow, divine punishment will swiftly follow. Now then, do you consent to proceed?"
Without hesitation, Xiao Tian replied, "Naturally. Let us begin."
The two swore their oaths before heaven and earth. Yue Er summoned the celestial contract scroll, which floated into the air. A radiant light burst forth, enveloping them both before dissipating into nothingness. The oath was complete.
"Well then," Yue Er said with a satisfied expression. "The pact is now sealed."
Xiao Tian, seeing the ritual concluded, retrieved his spatial ring. With a focused expression, he channeled his qi, and a staggering 1,500 eighth-tier beast cores poured forth into the room. Yue Er's eyes widened in shock, her composure momentarily shattered. She had assumed Xiao Tian would need to embark on a perilous hunt or retrieve cores from his family. Instead, here he was, presenting a surplus beyond the agreed-upon number.
After carefully inspecting the beast cores to confirm their authenticity, Yue Er spoke, her voice tinged with amazement, "Young Master, these are indeed genuine—and there are 500 more than required. Might I ask the reason for this generosity?"
Xiao Tian smiled faintly and replied, "Consider it a gift to commemorate our first collaboration."
Her lips curved into a soft smile, and she let out a light laugh. "Ah, Young Master Xiao Tian, you are truly remarkable. Very well, it is now time for you to claim your chosen treasures. Allow me to guide you."
Yue Er led Xiao Tian to a heavily sealed chamber. The door was fortified with numerous high-grade formations and layers of intricate enchantments, ensuring unparalleled security. One by one, the barriers were undone, and the door swung open, revealing a vast hall filled with treasures beyond imagination.
As Xiao Tian stepped inside, his gaze swept across the room. Divine weapons adorned with ancient inscriptions lined the walls, while rare artifacts and ancient manuals rested on pedestals. He even spotted eighth-tier weapons and relics of bygone eras. Among the treasures were manuals for ancient combat techniques and arts detailing the martial forms of primordial beasts. One technique in particular caught his eye—a method to elevate one's comprehension of intent, allowing mastery over the energy of heaven and earth and tapping into boundless power from higher dimensions.
This... this is a fortune beyond measure, Xiao Tian thought to himself. Though his heart brimmed with excitement, his face remained stoic as he carefully chose his treasures. Once his selection was complete, he turned to Yue Er and said, "I have found what I sought. Let us depart."
Yue Er nodded and accompanied him out of the chamber. As they exited, she lightly rested her arm on Xiao Tian's, her proximity drawing the attention of many within the pavilion. Eyes filled with envy and murderous intent bore into Xiao Tian, for few had ever seen Yue Er, let alone walked beside her in such an intimate manner.
Unperturbed by their stares, Xiao Tian strode out of the Yue Mei Pavilion with an air of quiet confidence, leaving behind a trail of stunned and jealous onlookers.
As they arrived at the exit, Xiao Tian spoke, his tone even and firm.
"Lady Yue'er, it is unwise for you to act in such a manner."
Feigning ignorance, Yue'er tilted her head innocently. "Oh? Whatever do you mean, Young Master Xiao?"
With a face as unyielding as stone, Xiao Tian replied, "For a beauty such as yourself to walk arm-in-arm with someone as insignificant as me… it could very well lead to my untimely demise. I can already feel the killing intent of those around us."
Upon hearing this, Yue'er giggled softly, her laughter a delicate melody. Meanwhile, Xiao Tian quickly departed from the establishment, aware that lingering any longer might place a target on his back. He made his way to his room, ensuring no one tracked him, and began to examine the three treasures he had acquired from the Yue Mei Pavilion.
The first treasure was a Combat Technique of Ancient Beasts, created by primordial creatures with human-like forms and unparalleled intellect. This technique elevated the practitioner's physical body and strength to unprecedented levels. Even achieving its mid-level mastery would allow one to shatter the heavens with a mere flick of a finger.
The second treasure was a Manual of Alchemical Transmutation, a text detailing ancient methods for crafting elixirs and forging weapons. This manual, crafted by a grandmaster alchemist eons ago, bore the secrets of an era older than mortal comprehension. That the Yue Mei Pavilion safeguarded such an artifact was a testament to its profound heritage and power.
Lastly, Xiao Tian selected a Technique for Enhancing Willpower, a profound method to strengthen and elevate one's intent. This technique enabled the practitioner to draw upon the infinite energies of the heavens and the earth, harnessing forces from higher dimensions without limit. Such power would allow the wielder to ascend beyond mortal boundaries indefinitely.
Xiao Tian knew, however, that treasures of this magnitude came with great peril. If word of his acquisition spread, even factions within the Sacred Realm would hunt him down without hesitation. Thus, he resolved to train in absolute secrecy.
He murmured to himself, "The alchemical manual must be my priority. If I master the basics, I can refine medicinal pills from beast cores during my journeys. These pills might be the difference between life and death."
Time was of the essence. With only five days before the competition, Xiao Tian hastened his preparations. He erected powerful formation arrays around his room, ensuring no energy fluctuations would escape and draw unwanted attention. The secrecy of his training was paramount; even the slightest hint could attract the scrutiny of powerhouses capable of unraveling his secrets.
The days passed in the blink of an eye, and Xiao Tian found himself lamenting the fleeting nature of time. Despite his efforts, five days were insufficient to grasp even the rudimentary foundations of such profound techniques. Nonetheless, he had managed to glean a few basic alchemical insights—enough, he hoped, to give him an edge in the challenges ahead.
As the fifth day dawned, Xiao Tian spoke to himself, determination hardening his tone. "Even with limited understanding, what I've learned might be enough to ensure my survival. I mustn't delay any longer; the meeting point awaits."
He swiftly made his way to the designated gathering spot, where a large crowd had already assembled. Moments later, a booming voice echoed across the square as the announcer began to speak.
"It seems all participants have arrived. Very well! I shall now explain the details of the first round of this grand competition—the location, its perils, and the challenges you must endure to survive."
"Very well! It is now time to announce the location of the first trial where you will fight for survival in this competition," the announcer declared, his voice resonating with authority.
"The first location is none other than the Demonic Realm of the Divine Gods!"
The announcement sent a wave of shock rippling through the crowd. Murmurs of disbelief and fear echoed as the participants processed the revelation. The Demonic Realm of the Divine Gods was infamous—a land teeming with demonic entities whose power began at the level of the Supernatural Realm and soared to the Mid-tier Divine Realm, or even higher. For the majority of the competitors, whose cultivation was far beneath such heights, entering this place felt akin to marching toward certain death.
Even Xiao Tian, who had barely reached the Realm of Alchemical Refinement, found himself silently calculating the insurmountable gap between himself and the entities within that domain. A single step below them was an unbridgeable chasm that could crush him like an ant.
The crowd was consumed by a mix of dread and despair, except for a select few—the Sacred Scions of the Ten Divine Lands.
These prodigies, blessed by unparalleled talent and lineage, displayed no signs of surprise or fear. To them, the demonic beings were no more than trivial pests, existing only to be crushed beneath their feet. Their indifference toward the danger only heightened the tension among the rest of the participants.
"Now," the announcer continued, a sinister grin spreading across his face, "I shall activate the formation that will transport you all to the Demonic Realm of the Divine Gods. May you survive and return intact… though I doubt many of you will."
With a chilling laugh, Xie Bai Shan, the competition overseer, gestured with his hand. Ancient runes erupted from the ground, forming an enormous teleportation array. The power of the formation surged, bathing the area in a blinding light.
"Step into the array," Xie Bai Shan commanded, his voice laced with mockery. "Your trial awaits. For those who wish to live, you'd best hope your wits and skills are sharper than your fear."
Xiao Tian took a deep breath, his fists clenched tightly. Demonic Realm of the Divine Gods... To think the first trial would be in such a perilous place.
As he stepped into the teleportation array, his resolve hardened. If I must survive, then I will forge my path, no matter the odds. I have no choice but to ascend, even if it means facing death itself.
With a flash of light, the contestants vanished, leaving only silence in their wake. The trial had begun.