Jiang Cheng stood in the now-quiet cave, his body still buzzing with newfound power. The sensation of breaking through was exhilarating, but he knew he had drawn the attention of someone dangerous. Qin Feng was not an opponent who would let things go so easily.
Taking a deep breath, Jiang Cheng clenched his fists. His energy surged more smoothly than ever, his meridians strengthened by the chaotic energy of the cave. He had reached the late Core Formation Realm, a significant leap forward, but he could not be complacent.
Leaving the Cave
Jiang Cheng exited the hidden training ground, stepping into the morning light. The sect's mountains stretched before him, mist rolling over the peaks like an ocean of clouds. But before he could appreciate the scenery, he sensed something.
Someone is watching me.
He turned his head slightly and caught the faintest movement in the distance. A figure in black robes vanished behind the trees. Jiang Cheng narrowed his eyes. Had Qin Feng sent someone to monitor him?
Deciding to act as if he hadn't noticed, Jiang Cheng descended the mountain path. If someone wanted to spy on him, he would let them—for now.
Returning to the Sect
Upon arriving at the sect grounds, Jiang Cheng immediately felt the shift in atmosphere. People were whispering about him.
"Did you hear? Jiang Cheng came back even stronger!"
"They say he fought Qin Feng and forced him back!"
"Is that true? I thought Qin Feng was one of the top disciples!"
Jiang Cheng ignored the murmurs and continued walking. He wasn't interested in fame, only in getting stronger. However, before he could reach his residence, he found himself blocked by a group of disciples.
A Confrontation
At the center of the group stood Wu Jian, a senior disciple known for his brute strength. His muscular frame and heavy presence made him an intimidating figure.
"So, you think you can challenge the upper ranks now?" Wu Jian sneered. "Just because you defeated Qin Feng, you think you're invincible?"
Jiang Cheng looked at him calmly. "Do you need something?"
Wu Jian's expression darkened. "Yeah. I need to remind you that in this sect, there's always someone stronger."
With that, Wu Jian struck without warning, his palm glowing with golden energy as it shot toward Jiang Cheng's chest.
A Test of Power
Jiang Cheng reacted instantly. He blocked the strike with his forearm, but the force sent a shockwave through his body. Wu Jian was indeed strong.
Without hesitation, Jiang Cheng countered, delivering a swift, precise strike to Wu Jian's ribs. The impact made Wu Jian stagger, his eyes widening in surprise.
But the fight wasn't over. Wu Jian recovered quickly and launched a flurry of attacks. Jiang Cheng dodged, countering only when necessary. The battle drew a crowd, disciples gathering to watch.
Then, Jiang Cheng saw an opening.
With a step forward, he unleashed a powerful palm strike to Wu Jian's chest. A burst of energy erupted as Wu Jian was sent flying several meters back, crashing to the ground.
Silence filled the air.
Wu Jian groaned and pushed himself up, glaring at Jiang Cheng. But instead of attacking again, he let out a short laugh.
"Hah… not bad. You've earned my respect," he admitted. "Looks like you're really going to shake things up around here."
Jiang Cheng didn't respond. He had no interest in rivalries within the sect—his goal lay far beyond this place.
An Unexpected Invitation
Just as the crowd was dispersing, a voice called out from above.
"Jiang Cheng!"
He looked up to see a woman descending gracefully from the sky. Her robes were a deep blue, embroidered with silver patterns. She carried herself with an air of authority.
It was Elder Ling Yue, one of the sect's senior instructors.
"The Sect Master wishes to see you."
Jiang Cheng's eyes sharpened. The Sect Master?
This was unexpected. The Sect Master rarely summoned disciples unless something important was happening.
Without hesitation, Jiang Cheng followed Elder Ling Yue toward the sect's inner sanctum, his mind racing with possibilities.
End of Chapter 15.
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