After both had finished sipping tea, Xiao Tian asked,
"May I know the reason, Senior, why you summoned me to this place? Surely, it is not merely to share tea and part ways?" His gaze fixed unwaveringly on Yu Cheng Leixia, his tone respectful yet probing.
Yu Cheng Leixia responded, his voice calm yet carrying a weight of history.
"It is nothing of great significance. You have passed my trial, and as per the rules, I am bound to grant you the inheritance I built during my prime. However, before I bestow it upon you, may I share my story? For when I leave this world, the tale of my deeds and struggles shall vanish into obscurity forever."
A faint sigh escaped his lips.
"Though my name once echoed across the lands, no one escapes the passage of time. Its relentless tide washes away even the grandest legacies."
His voice was devoid of emotion, like the sound of an ancient bell tolling in a desolate temple.
Xiao Tian set the teacup down on the table with a natural grace, nodding with sincerity.
"Please, Senior, speak. I am ready to listen to your story."
His tone carried warmth and reverence, reflecting the utmost respect for the elder.
Yu Cheng Leixia's deep gaze rested on Xiao Tian before he began recounting his life story, starting from his early days.
"In my youth, I was no different from any child, dreaming of cultivating to become strong and to protect my family. But fate is a cruel jester. On the day I went hunting, filled with joy at the thought of providing a hearty meal for my family, I envisioned their smiles- my father and mother, who supported my cultivation with boundless love."
A pause lingered, his voice faltering for a moment before resuming.
"Yet, as I returned to the village, a column of black smoke spiraled into the sky. Panic surged through me as I abandoned my game and sprinted home, only to find my village engulfed in flames and chaos. Cultivators of supernatural prowess rampaged, slaughtering and pillaging for resources and treasures. They were bandits from the infamous Northern Marauders, led by the ambitious and battle-hardened Long Hao Feng, a warlord unmatched even by imperial masters."
Yu Cheng Leixia's voice tightened, his eyes darkened.
"My heart froze as I found my home reduced to ashes. My father lay in a pool of blood, his chest pierced by a sword, his right arm severed. Beside him was my mother, her lifeless body cradling his, a dagger buried in her heart. Despair overwhelmed me as I knelt by their broken forms, tears flowing freely. My father, barely alive, opened his eyes and spoke with his dying breath."
Yu Cheng Leixia's voice trembled as he recounted his father's words. "Son, do not mourn for us. This world is unforgiving, and death is but a natural part of life. Live on, my child, and find your path as a cultivator. That will be our greatest joy."
He paused, his tone heavy with sorrow.
"Even as he smiled, blood trickled from his lips. Those were his last words. I was but seven years old, too young to grasp the weight of his message. I cried and clung to them for days, refusing food or rest, until I finally buried them beneath two carefully dug graves, marking each with a stone inscribed with their names and smiling faces."
As the elder's tale unfolded, Xiao Tian listened intently, feeling the pain and resolve behind every word. Yu Cheng Leixia continued with the story of his first encounter with the mysterious white-haired elder and the arduous journey that led him to his current state.
Each word carried the weight of a lifetime, drawing Xiao Tian deeper into the somber narrative of loss, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of strength. As the stars shimmered above them, their shared silence spoke volumes-a silent promise of understanding and the unyielding will to forge ahead.
At that moment, a single tear slid down from Yu Cheng Leixia's left eye. Suddenly, an elderly man with snow-white hair appeared beside him, settling down with a serene smile.
"Child, what troubles weigh so heavily upon your heart? Why not share your burdens with me? Perhaps I can help lighten your sorrow," the old man spoke gently, his voice carrying an inexplicable warmth.
Yu Cheng Leixia glanced at the elder, his hesitation gradually melting away. Slowly, he began recounting the events that had transpired just four days prior. The elder listened intently, nodding occasionally with understanding. When Yu Cheng Leixia finished, the old man said, "It is not uncommon for such tragedies to occur. Many villages have suffered similar fates. Death, after all, has been an immutable truth since time immemorial. What matters is not the inevitability of death, but how long one can persist before it comes."
The wisdom in the elder's words resonated deeply within Yu Cheng Leixia. It was as though he was receiving teachings from a father or a revered master. He listened with an open heart, absorbing every word without objection. Gradually, a sense of clarity began to emerge—he started to understand himself and the nature of humanity more profoundly.
As the conversation drew to a close, the elder smiled warmly and said, "It's late now. Rest well, for we must set out on our journey tomorrow." With that, the old man retired to his tent. Yu Cheng Leixia followed suit, returning to his own tent to rest.
At dawn, Yu Cheng Leixia awoke feeling unexpectedly refreshed. His body seemed invigorated, and his mind was clear. Yet, as he stepped out, a pungent stench assaulted his senses—so foul it made human waste seem tolerable by comparison. Hastily, he packed his belongings and moved away from the source of the odor, stepping into the morning sunlight.
He felt a sense of renewal, as though the meal he had shared with the white-haired elder the night before had somehow cleansed him from within. Curious, he approached the elder's tent, only to find it empty. In its place was a single envelope and a ring left behind.
Opening the letter, Yu Cheng Leixia read:
"The path ahead of you is long, and you are still but a fledgling. If you wish to walk the road of cultivation, you must build a firm foundation and cultivate both wisdom and knowledge. The ring I leave behind is my token of gratitude for your companionship and guidance. May it serve you well on your journey, and may you find your destined path."
The letter was signed Bai Yunxiu.
The name etched itself deeply into Yu Cheng Leixia's memory. He picked up the ring, sliding it onto the middle finger of his left hand. Turning the letter over, he noticed additional instructions: to activate the ring, a drop of blood was required to bind it to its new owner.
Without hesitation, Yu Cheng Leixia bit his thumb and let a drop of blood fall onto the ring. Instantly, it emitted a radiant glow. When the light faded, a storage space revealed itself—a treasure trove filled with scrolls and rare herbs.
The scrolls contained cultivation techniques focused on controlling lightning and wind, the very essence of nature's power. The resources within were enough to make even a cultivator of the Sixth Realm of Natural Flesh tremble with greed—and perhaps even someone at the Seventh Realm might covet them.
Realizing the value of what he had been entrusted with, Yu Cheng Leixia resolved to keep this discovery a secret. He vowed not to trust anyone until he understood their true intentions.
Turning his gaze to the heavens, he declared with unwavering conviction, "One day, I shall command the skies and transcend the heavens themselves!"
With that, he set forth on his journey once more.
....
He concluded, his voice laced with solemnity, "That was my story at the tender age of seven—a time of immense sorrow and hardship."
Xiao Tian, who had been listening intently, responded respectfully, "Elder, I am deeply sorry for such a loss. Yet, the wisdom of Bai Yunxiu's words is undeniable. Life and death are part of this world's natural order. Even I cannot change this truth, at least not yet. But... must you recount your story from childhood to old age? If so, I fear I might remain here for millennia before it's done!"
Yu Cheng Leixia laughed heartily, clearly amused by Xiao Tian's playful retort. "Fear not," he replied, his tone lighter. "What I've shared is but a prelude—a glimpse of the trials that shaped my path. From here on, I shall recount the true tale of my journey."
Thereafter, I embarked on a journey to the southern lands, where I encountered countless strangers of diverse origins, all of whom were surprisingly amiable.
I traveled across vast regions, venturing into countless bizarre dimensions. For an eternity, I wandered through strange and otherworldly realms, connecting with lands unknown and endless. In these uncharted territories, I experienced numerous trials and hardships, surviving the perils of the underworld and even foreign worlds where suppression was relentless. Yet, despite such oppression, I struggled and endured, ultimately shattering the very laws of those worlds.
I left my homeworld to explore the boundless outer realms, seeking unique experiences. I witnessed marvels beyond imagination and traversed worlds of a higher origin than my own. Harnessing my lightning-like speed, I journeyed through innumerable realms and eventually arrived in this one.
This world was shrouded in terrifying laws of reality, unmatched in their oppressive might. Thus, I constructed a gateway linking this realm to countless others. Some came to inherit my legacy, while others failed to proceed. Among the myriad worlds, only you have managed to claim my legacy and pass the third trial. In this dominion, too, restrictions abound. It suppresses entities at the eighth rank unless they were born with such power native to this world.
As for the true reason for my demise—it was not due to the God of Balance. No, it was the ultimate truth itself. That day, it refused to allow me to ascend to the peak of the eighth rank. It saw within me a terrifying potential, a defiance of the heavens themselves. Thus, it wielded the highest laws of reality to obliterate my will. The being that enacted this decree was none other than the supreme sovereign who governs even the heavens themselves.
I could not fully comprehend its existence. I could only perceive an aura so overwhelmingly powerful that it defied imagination. Its authority was absolute, rendering me utterly incapable of resistance. After my death, my descendants and the clans I founded across various worlds were purged. Now, I am but a fragment of will, a remnant of power that has barely endured for countless epochs.
Yet, in only a few million more cycles, my soul will dissipate entirely. With someone now capable of inheriting my legacy, my time has come to an end. No further trials shall be given, and this place will collapse into the void.
Before you arrived, I sensed the aura of lightning—my primal energy—upon you. It appears you've stumbled upon a certain scripture. If I'm not mistaken, it should be the Scripture of Lightning Assimilation, correct? It seems you've come into contact with it.
Xiao Tian thought to himself, It's true. I touched that scripture, and the lightning within scorched my hand, searing my arm down to the bone.
"Well then," the ancestor continued, "it is time for me to pass my legacy onto you. Follow me."
Xiao Tian followed the Thunder Ancestor across a vast, verdant plain. The elder said, "I shall bestow my inheritance upon you here. Remember the greatness of my story, and carry forth my legacy through the generations. Do not let the tale of the Thunder Ancestor fade into obscurity."
Xiao Tian nodded solemnly. "Elder, I understand. I shall ensure your legacy will never be lost. I will pass down your story and inheritance to future generations, eternally without end."
.....
Upon hearing this, the Thunder God Ancestor nodded with satisfaction. His eyes shone with a profound wisdom as he extended his two fingers toward Xiao Tian's forehead. A golden arc of lightning crackled between his fingertips, its radiance illuminating the vast, green plains.
"Brace yourself," the Thunder God Ancestor warned. "The legacy I am about to impart is not a simple inheritance of power—it is the culmination of countless eons of cultivation, pain, and enlightenment. This process will subject you to excruciating pain that will sear your very soul, a trial far beyond what you endured in the Third Test. If your resolve falters, you may be reduced to ashes."
Xiao Tian knelt firmly, his eyes blazing with determination. "I am prepared, Senior. No trial shall deter me, no pain shall break me. I vow to honor your legacy and bear the weight of your power with dignity!"
The Thunder God Ancestor smirked faintly at his response, then pressed his fingers onto Xiao Tian's forehead. Instantly, an overwhelming surge of energy poured into Xiao Tian's mind. His consciousness was engulfed by a sea of lightning, arcs of pure energy tearing through his mental defenses. Visions of ancient battles, the rise and fall of celestial realms, and the boundless wisdom of the Thunder God Ancestor filled his mind.
Every inch of Xiao Tian's body convulsed violently as the overwhelming power coursed through him. His veins felt as though they were being shattered, and his bones seemed ready to crumble under the immense pressure. Yet amidst the excruciating agony, he gritted his teeth and held his ground.
Suddenly, the voice of the Thunder God Ancestor resonated within his mind. "Good. Your resolve is stronger than I anticipated. This is the true measure of one who will inherit my legacy. Remember, Xiao Tian: the heavens will always suppress those who seek to defy their decrees. But you, my successor, must transcend their limits. Forge your own path, and never allow yourself to bow before fate."
With those words, a surge of knowledge began inscribing itself deep within Xiao Tian's soul. Mysterious cultivation techniques of lightning mastery, profound insights into the laws of nature, and forbidden arts that could shake the heavens themselves were branded into his very being. Alongside this, Xiao Tian could feel his body absorbing a boundless power, his dantian roaring as if it had become a thunderstorm incarnate.
After what felt like an eternity, the Thunder God Ancestor withdrew his fingers, and Xiao Tian collapsed onto the ground, drenched in sweat but alive. His breathing was ragged, and his body trembled, but his eyes burned with newfound power. A faint glow of lightning danced across his skin, and his very presence seemed to ripple with an otherworldly energy.
The Thunder God Ancestor gazed at him with pride. "You have done well, Xiao Tian. My legacy now rests with you. From this moment, you are not just a cultivator—you are a harbinger of storms, a force that will one day command the heavens themselves. Now go forth, for the path of defiance and transcendence lies ahead."
Xiao Tian knelt and bowed deeply. "I will not fail you, Senior. Your legacy will shine brighter than ever, and the heavens shall tremble before my might."
With those words, the Thunder God Ancestor's form began to fade, his presence dissipating into countless specks of golden light. As his final essence merged with the world, the plains trembled, and the once lush fields became a void of silence. The realm of inheritance had fulfilled its purpose and ceased to exist.
Xiao Tian stood alone amidst the fading echoes of the Thunder God Ancestor's presence. His hands clenched into fists as he gazed upward, the skies above seemingly acknowledging the storm that now resided within him.
"I will rise beyond the heavens," Xiao Tian vowed, his voice filled with unyielding determination. "And no force, mortal or divine, will stop me." With that, he turned and began his journey, the storm within guiding his every step toward destiny.
He surveyed his surroundings, only to find a radiant gateway of light standing before him. Without hesitation, he stepped through, emerging into a boundless, ethereal space of pure white.
Before him lay the figure of a young woman, unconscious and serene amidst the void. Focusing his gaze, he quickly recognized her—Chen Xinyue, the one sacrificed by Zhao Wei during the ritual. His mind raced in confusion. How could this be? She was meant to have been offered in both body and soul. Yet, here she was, unscathed and present. Could it be... some unknown intervention by the Thunder Ancestor?
Setting aside his thoughts, he approached her still form and attempted to rouse her. Slowly, her eyes fluttered open, her expression groggy, as though she had just awakened from a long dream. "Where… where am I?" she murmured, her voice weak, her lips still glistening with a hint of drowsy drool.
Her blurry eyes caught sight of him—a man dressed in black robes standing before her. His face was unmasked, his features strikingly clear. It was none other than Xiao Tian.
Just moments ago, Xiao Tian had endured the unrelenting storm of the Thunder Trial's third stage. Though his garments had been reduced to tatters by the relentless lightning, upon stepping through the trial's gateway and into this sacred domain, his attire had inexplicably reverted to its pristine state. It was as if the trial itself acknowledged his perseverance and restored him.
Now, as he stood before Chen Xinyue, his mind buzzed with questions. How is she alive? he pondered, his thoughts a storm of contradictions. Did something go wrong with the ritual? No, that's impossible... The puzzle gnawed at him relentlessly.
Chen Xinyue, now fully awake, noticed his intense stare and instinctively recoiled. "D-Don't come any closer!" she stammered, panic seeping into her voice. "I… I already have someone I love! If you try anything, he'll make you regret it!"
Xiao Tian blinked, momentarily dumbfounded, before a look of exasperation crossed his face. "Hah?! You think I'd waste my time harassing you? Stop flattering yourself!" he retorted sharply, his tone dripping with annoyance.
Her face flushed with indignation. "How dare you! Are you saying I'm not beautiful enough? Even the Sacred Son himself—Zhao Wei—adores my beauty! What makes you think you're above me?!"
Xiao Tian sighed, visibly unimpressed. "Listen, woman," he said, his voice icy. "We're in a place of utter nothingness. Instead of spouting nonsense, how about focusing on the real problem—finding a way out of here? Unless you prefer to stay here and rot, you'd best keep quiet and cooperate." His eyes gleamed with a faint mockery.
Chen Xinyue trembled, realizing the truth in his words. Her surroundings—a vast, infinite expanse of white—offered no sense of direction, no landmarks, no escape. Her fear shifted from indignation to a gnawing anxiety.
Hours passed as the two searched for an exit. Xiao Tian, frustrated by their lack of progress, began contemplating extreme solutions. Could killing her create a path? he wondered. Yet he dismissed the thought. If such a solution were required, it would have been triggered already.
"Tell me your name," he demanded abruptly, his tone sharp and impatient.
Chen Xinyue glared at him, annoyed. "Why does my name matter right now? Focus on finding the exit!" she snapped.
"Just answer the question," Xiao Tian growled. "I think I've figured out the way out, but I need your name first."
Reluctantly, she replied, "My name is Chen Xinyue. Satisfied?"
"Good," Xiao Tian said curtly. "I am Xiao Tian, a challenger of the Thunder Ancestor's trials."
Her eyes narrowed in suspicion. "You? Impossible. Only someone like Zhao Wei could pass those trials. He's noble, gentle, worthy—unlike you."
His patience snapped. "Zhao Wei? That so-called 'Sacred Son' is nothing but a wolf in sheep's clothing," he snarled. "He doesn't care about anyone, least of all you. I've faced him myself—I've seen what he's capable of. He uses people like pawns, even those more beautiful than you, and discards them without hesitation."
His words cut deep, leaving her trembling. She struggled to retort but found herself silenced by his sheer intensity. "If you truly want to leave this place," he said coldly, "stop clinging to your delusions. Now, sit and follow my lead."
With no other choice, Chen Xinyue obeyed. Together, they sat cross-legged, their hands joining in an awkward union. As they concentrated, a strange energy began to ripple through the void, distorting the space around them. The endless whiteness churned, collapsing in on itself like a whirlpool.
Moments later, the oppressive nothingness gave way, and they found themselves standing at the entrance to the Thunder Ancestor's domain.
Chen Xinyue gasped in disbelief. "We… we're out!"
Before she could process what had happened, familiar faces appeared—Chen Yunxiao and his companions stood nearby. Yet, the gaze Chen Yunxiao cast upon her was cold, distant. Their bond, once unshakable, was now irreparably fractured.
But Xiao Tian's reunion was far warmer. A young woman dashed toward him and flung herself into his arms. "Little brother!" she cried, her voice trembling with joy. It was Xiao Hanyan, his sister who had been disguised as Yan Xiao.
"Easy, easy! I need to breathe!" Xiao Tian wheezed, though a faint smile tugged at his lips. As his companions—Zhang Dalei, Xiao Shan, and Zhang Bai—gathered around him, the cold emptiness of the trial seemed to fade into a distant memory.
Amidst the ominous atmosphere, Xiao Tian steadied his breath, his voice cold and laden with malice. "Wait... where is that so-called Holy Son, Wei? Has he vanished into thin air?"
His elder sister responded, her tone uncertain, "I'm not sure. Ever since we left, I haven't seen him. Perhaps he fled."
Xiao Tian frowned, shaking his head. "Impossible. This place has no ordinary exit. Escaping would require profound techniques beyond his reach." His words sent a shiver through the group, their faces turning pale.
Xiao Shan voiced the growing concern. "Then how do we leave this place?" The unease among them deepened. Yet Xiao Tian smirked, his confidence unwavering.
"Do not fret. I've already discerned the way out during the trial. Follow me, and I shall guide you to safety." His assurance brought visible relief to the group, their fears momentarily quelled.
However, Chen Xinyue remained silent, her expression darkening. Her thoughts churned in turmoil. The man I admired, the Sixth Holy Son, abandoned me without a second thought… Could Xiao Tian's words be true? She approached Xiao Tian hesitantly, clutching his arm in desperation.
"Please," she pleaded, her voice trembling, "take me with you. I don't want to be trapped here."
Xiao Tian's gaze turned sharp, his lips curling into a mocking smile. "And who are you to demand such a favor? Don't you have someone you cherish already? Why not seek his help instead?" He paused before adding coldly, "Ah, I forgot. He's already fled, hasn't he?"
His scornful laughter echoed, drawing a flush of humiliation from Chen Xinyue. Xiao Tian's sister quickly stepped in, pulling her away. "Leave her be, Xiao Tian. This isn't the time."
Chen Xinyue lowered her head, her heart burdened by guilt. Her naivety had caused irreparable rifts in her relationship with Chen Yunxiao. Yet, just as despair consumed her, a voice broke the silence.
"Sage Xiao, allow me to introduce myself. I am Chen Yunxiao," he began, bowing deeply. His demeanor exuded respect and humility. "I humbly request your guidance out of this place. In return, I offer you a Level Seven treasure as compensation."
Xiao Tian studied him briefly before responding with a nod. "No need for formalities. I understand your plight and will lead you to safety. Follow me."
Chen Yunxiao's gratitude was evident, but his eyes briefly flickered toward Chen Xinyue. He suppressed his emotions, his tone steady as he added, "I also ask that you take her with you. For that, I'll offer another Level Seven treasure."
Xiao Tian raised a brow but ultimately agreed. "Very well. A fair trade, indeed."
Leading the group, Xiao Tian brought them to an ancient formation. Pulses of lightning energy emanated from its core, filling the air with a palpable tension. The sheer might of the lightning caused the weaker cultivators to tremble in awe.
Unfazed, Xiao Tian approached the formation, his movements deliberate. The lightning, recognizing its true master, yielded to his presence. With a single motion, he claimed the Thunder Codex floating at its center. Its power resonated deeply with his own as he absorbed it into his will.
Turning to a massive stone platform inscribed with ancient lightning runes, Xiao Tian placed his hand upon it. Pure lightning energy coursed through the platform, activating the formation. The carvings glowed brilliantly, the heavens above responding with swirling storms.
"Activate the teleportation!" Xiao Tian commanded, his voice thundering over the roar of the storm.
In an instant, their surroundings dissolved, and the group was transported to a new location. They now stood within a vast, desolate ruin, another relic of a bygone era. Before them stood another stone pillar, identical to the one they had just left.
The trial was over. They had emerged from the unknown realm.
Xiao Tian spoke with a calm yet commanding tone, "We have successfully emerged from the trial grounds of the Thunder God's legacy. Now, we've returned to the Realm of Ruin."
The group collectively exhaled in relief. While the Realm of Ruin remained perilous, it was a far cry from the chaotic, unfathomable world they had just escaped.
Still, the surroundings were unfamiliar. Xiao Tian addressed their unease, "This realm is vast and boundless. It's not surprising to encounter places unknown even to seasoned travelers. For now, it's best we part ways and pursue our respective paths."
Chen Yunxiao stepped forward, fulfilling his promise by presenting two spiritual-grade weapons to Xiao Tian. Bowing slightly, he said, "With this, I take my leave."
But before he could depart, Chen Xinyue cried out, her voice trembling with desperation. "Please, don't abandon me! Let me follow you!" Tears streamed down her face as she pleaded, her sobs echoing like a child's wail.
Xiao Tian remained indifferent, his cold gaze fixed on Chen Yunxiao. "Do you truly feel nothing for this woman anymore?"
Without hesitation, Chen Yunxiao replied firmly, "I severed ties with her long ago. There's nothing left between us. My future lies on a solitary path of cultivation. I shall traverse the martial world and distant realms, unburdened by attachments."
Xiao Tian nodded, his expression unreadable. He turned to leave, but his elder sister intervened. She couldn't ignore Chen Xinyue's pitiful state and suggested, "Why not bring her along? At the very least, she could be useful for carrying supplies or other menial tasks."
Xiao Tian smirked, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "Interesting," he mused, his sharp gaze settling on Chen Xinyue. A wicked smile spread across his face.
And so, Chen Xinyue found herself following Xiao Tian's group, relegated to the role of a porter. She carried their supplies and harvested the remains of demonic beasts they defeated. Though exhaustion weighed heavily on her, she dared not complain. To her, traveling under Xiao Tian's protection, even in servitude, was a blessing. Left to fend for herself, she wouldn't have survived the ferocious beasts lurking in the Realm of Ruin.
The group continued their journey, led by Xiao Tian, whose presence commanded both awe and fear. One evening, they ascended a towering peak to rest and take in the view.
The skies above were an endless expanse of darkness, adorned with countless stars that shimmered like fragments of shattered jade. The Realm of Ruin knew no daybreak; its eternal night was both serene and oppressive.
~ Xiao Tian stood atop the summit, his gaze fixed upon the heavens. His thoughts were inscrutable, as the vast expanse of stars reflected in his eyes. Time drifted by like the wind, silent and unyielding...~