Chapter 75: Provocation

Chapter 75: Provocation

"The original purpose of today's martial arts exchange was for mutual improvement and entertainment. I, the Prince, couldn't help but intervene when I saw the venerable gentleman aiming to gouge out General He's eyes. To accuse me of attempting a covert assassination is an exaggeration."

Lu Yan's languid voice echoed in the grand hall, making everyone feel that he seemed different from before. The peacock platform was aglow with candlelight, illuminating his clear and handsome features, his smile captivating, almost bewitching.

Gongsun Wuyou was still confused, utterly perplexed. Liu Que Dan had vague suspicions, looking at Lu Yan with uncertain surprise, feeling as if he had missed some crucial information.

Zhu Ling gestured with his hand, his aged right hand like bark, his nails gleaming with a dark luster. "I spoke out of turn earlier. Since Your Highness is quite skilled, why not come up and spar, to catch a glimpse of the profundity of the 'Taoist Scripture'?"

The Emperor frowned deeply, immediately rebuking, "Third son, don't be foolish!"

This black-robed elder's techniques were truly peculiar; even the Emperor might not win against him. If Lu Yan were to fight on stage, he would likely end up crippled or dead.

Hearing this, Lu Yan remained silent, thinking that since He Jian Shuang had already lost, if Xian Ling could not win the match, it would imply there was no one more skilled in the court, a dire situation if discovered by the other three kingdoms.

After much deliberation, Lu Yan made a decision. Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, he raised his head and drained the remaining wine in his cup, rising from his seat. "This prince is unworthy, the least accomplished among my brothers. But today, with all heroes gathered, it's a rare occasion. I wish to learn from the venerable gentleman, hoping you won't withhold your teachings!"

Is the Prince of Feng Ling mad?!

This was the unanimous thought of nearly everyone present. Even Xian Ling's top warrior, He Jian Shuang, had fallen to the black-robed elder. What could the Prince, a man debilitated by wine and women, hope to achieve? Was he seeking death?

Almost all the court officials inwardly lamented. Even the Princes of Nanxun and Guxu looked grim. They had enmity with Lu Yan, but if he were humiliated in public, it would disgrace Xian Ling.

Even Zhao Yuzhang looked at Lu Yan in disbelief, lowering his voice. "Are you insane?! That black-robed freak fights bizarrely, even He Jian Shuang couldn't defeat him. Are you going to your death?"

Lu Yan gave him a smile, unconcerned. "Wouldn't my death suit your heart's desire?"

These words were directed at Zhao Yuzhang and Liu Que Dan.

After speaking, Lu Yan rose from his seat. Suddenly remembering something, he turned to look at Shang Jun Nian, lifting his chin with his fingertip. "Your Excellency, aren't you worried about this prince? If I die, you'll have to live as a widow."

Shang Jun Nian followed his gesture, raising his head. His eyes were deep, like an unfathomable cold pool, concealing his true emotions. His voice was low and icy. "Your Highness can go ahead. If he kills you, I will ensure he has no place to rest in death."

If you die, I will avenge you. These words sounded reasonable yet unappealing.

Bending close to his ear, Lu Yan's lips curved slightly. "Your Excellency, if you shed a tear, this prince would be happier."

Shang Jun Nian was taken aback, but Lu Yan had already turned away, taking a three-foot wooden sword from a eunuch. He then leaped onto the fighting stage like a swift swallow.

A master's move reveals their skill.

Lu Yan's movements were undoubtedly the cleanest and most agile among the fighters. This single move showed his remarkable lightness skills. Many faces changed color at the sight. Lu Yan held the sword gracefully, bowing and saying, "Please teach me."

The black robe disliked swords, preferring to use his nails as weapons. He laughed sinisterly. "My art is for killing in chaotic times, without regard for severity. If I accidentally injure Your Highness, please do not hold a grudge."

With these words, he moved like a swift wind, his right hand clawing straight for Lu Yan's eyes. The Emperor and others watched in shock. Just as several guards hidden in the shadows prepared to rush forward, Lu Yan suddenly spun away, swiftly raising the wooden sword to block. A clang rang out—the quality of Zhu Ling's nails was unknown, but they left a noticeable dent in the wooden sword.

Zhu Ling laughed heartily. "A mere wooden sword cannot withstand this old man's iron claws!"

His pale blue eyes stared straight at Lu Yan, causing dizziness if looked at too long. Lu Yan realized this man likely knew some witchcraft or evil spells, explaining why He Jian Shuang had fought so sluggishly earlier, as if soulless.

"Rip—"

Lu Yan decisively tore off a piece of his robe, retreating quickly to create distance. In full view of everyone, he made a bold decision, blindfolding himself with the crimson strip, tying a tight knot behind his head.

The black robe's expression changed, surprised that Lu Yan could be so resolute. Although this prevented him from being affected by the soul-sucking technique, being blind would make the fight perilous.

"He's mad! How can he fight blindfolded?!"

Zhao Yuzhang subconsciously grabbed Shang Jun Nian's sleeve, feeling nervous despite the dangerous situation on the field. Though he disliked Lu Yan, he was after all Shang Jun Nian's backer. If anything happened to him, wouldn't Shang Jun Nian have to serve a cripple?

Shang Jun Nian appeared indifferent, but a slender, venom-coated silver needle hid in his fingertips. Several times, he nearly threw this concealed weapon, but seeing Lu Yan escape danger, he restrained himself. Clearly, he wasn't as calm as he seemed.

Shang Jun Nian's voice was calm. "Let's observe."

Although blindfolded, Lu Yan's hearing was amplified, allowing him to discern moves through sound. His long sword flew swiftly, leaving only afterimages. Each time, he accurately countered Zhu Ling's attacks, matching him blow for blow without faltering.

In the golden hall, two figures—one red, one black—fought fiercely, their sword qi and inner strength shattering the fighting stage. Zhu Ling grew increasingly anxious, his moves becoming more vicious and sinister. He deliberately used his inner strength to lift debris from the broken stage towards Lu Yan, then attacked secretly, confusing Lu Yan's hearing and earning curses from the spectators for his shamelessness.

Blind, Lu Yan became even more agile, his crimson robes fluttering like a red butterfly's wings, strikingly beautiful. Yet his sword moves were pure, his aura steady, possessing the demeanor of a celestial being.

Gongsun Wuyou rubbed his eyes hard, suspecting hallucinations. How could the wastrel Prince of Feng Ling possess such formidable skills, his swordsmanship surpassing even his cousin by a hundredfold!

Liu Que Dan was stunned, subconsciously gripping his wine cup tightly. He never imagined that Lu Yan had been hiding his true strength for so long. How old was he? Twenty-two? Twenty-three? To match the black robe, a master swordsman, evenly, his future prospects were unimaginable!

Even outsiders were shocked, let alone the Emperor and the other two princes. For a moment, the hall was filled with varied thoughts, each person's mind churning with tumultuous waves.

Even a wastrel prince had such remarkable skills. Could it be that Xian Ling's strength was not as simple as it seemed, harboring profound mysteries?

Zhao Yuxi frowned, staring at the figure on the field. He had intended to probe Xian Ling's true strength. If it proved hollow, he could incite rebellion from the other two countries. But he hadn't expected...

"Ahhhh—!!!"

A scream suddenly jolted everyone's scattered thoughts back to reality. The black-robed figure flew off the fighting stage like a sandbag, clutching his right hand and screaming. A bloody index finger lay nearby, its black, sharp nail glinting in the candlelight.

Standing on the fighting stage, Lu Yan removed the crimson blindfold, revealing eyes as bright and sharp as stars. Holding the wooden sword, its tip slightly drooping with specks of blood, he had severed the black robe's finger with sheer inner strength.

The entire hall fell silent, no one daring to believe that the useless Prince Lu Yan had defeated Zhu Ling.

Lu Yan sheathed his sword neatly, speaking calmly. "I noticed the venerable senior's nails were too sharp, always aiming for people's eyes. I wanted to trim them for you, but I didn't expect to use too much force. Please don't hold a grudge."

Zhu Ling's hand skills far surpassed his swordsmanship. With his index finger severed, how could he not harbor hatred? Unfortunately, this was Xian Ling's territory, and he could only endure the humiliation. Clutching his wound, he staggered to his feet, glaring venomously at Lu Yan. "Your Highness is superior in skill. I admit defeat. The sword and the 'Taoist Scripture' belong to Your Highness. May Your Highness soon ascend to the Taoist path!"

With these words, he withdrew from the fighting stage, returning to stand behind Zhao Yuxi.

Minister Liu was overjoyed, his mood akin to discovering that a useless pig in his backyard had transformed into a golden dragon soaring into the sky. He hurried onto the fighting stage, his elderly voice barely containing his excitement. "Prince of Feng Ling wins this round. Is there any hero willing to challenge him?"

He spoke rapidly, fearing that if he delayed, someone else would step up to challenge. Indeed, the experts within the Twelve Provinces had mostly been defeated in previous rounds. Only Zhu Ling and He Jian Shuang had the potential to compete. Now that Lu Yan had bested Zhu Ling, no one dared to step forward to face certain death.

The crowd exchanged glances, secretly shaking their heads, and no one stepped forward to the stage.

Seeing no response, Chancellor Liu laughed, his face creasing with wrinkles. "Since no one has come forward to challenge, the Divine Sword and the *Scripture of Ascension* shall belong to Prince Fengling!"

After his declaration, he turned to bow to the Emperor, his voice ringing clear. "Your humble servant congratulates Your Majesty on having a son as magnificent as a dragon, and also congratulates His Highness for his valorous combat skills! May the Immortal Spirit reign for a thousand autumns, and may Your Majesty's reign be equally long!"

The other court officials followed suit, kneeling to pay their respects. "May the Immortal Spirit reign for a thousand autumns! May Your Majesty's reign be equally long!"

Though the Emperor was surprised by Lu Yan's martial prowess, this was his beloved son after all. Witnessing Lu Yan's victory, his joy now far outweighed his shock, and he revealed a rare smile, his imperial countenance pleased. "This son of mine has always been the most unworthy. I fear I have embarrassed you all today! As for the other competitors, do not lose heart. There will be rewards from me!"

Everyone chorused their thanks. "We thank Your Majesty for your grace!"

After the arena was dismantled, the hall regained its splendor, no longer bearing the signs of the earlier chaos. Only the lingering scent of blood in the air reminded everyone of what had transpired.

Grand Master Xuanhong approached, holding an ancient-looking book, and bowed to Lu Yan. "Your Highness, this is the *Scripture of Ascension*. Tian Shui is a high and remote land, lacking the extraordinary talents worthy of such an item. Now that it is bestowed upon Your Highness, it will not be in vain."

"Thank you, Grand Master, for your gift."

Lu Yan handed the wooden sword to a nearby eunuch and received the *Scripture of Ascension* with both hands. He flipped through a few pages and found that the opening described a malevolent cultivation technique involving extracting others' inner cores to aid one's own practice. He couldn't help but chuckle. "They say the *Scripture of Ascension* records unparalleled skills, allowing one to achieve twice the result with half the effort. Is the King of Tian Shui willing to part with such an item?"

These words carried a deeper meaning, but unfortunately, Grand Master Xuan didn't catch it—or perhaps he did but chose to feign ignorance, lowering his voice. "Only a true dragon can be worthy of such a treasure. Tian Shui dares not keep it for itself. We only hope that Your Highness, considering our king's yearning for his son, will speak well of him before the Emperor and allow Crown Prince Wuyou to return home. Then, this humble servant would have fulfilled his mission."

Lu Yan smiled, simply saying, "The Emperor is merciful. I doubt my intercession will be necessary."

Upon hearing this, Grand Master Xuan was taken aback, unable to discern whether Lu Yan had agreed or declined. Subconsciously, he looked at the other party, only to see Lu Yan walking to the center of the hall with the *Scripture of Ascension* in hand, drawing countless burning gazes upon himself.

Since its appearance, this book had caused a great uproar, with ceaseless battles over it for a hundred years. Now that it was in Lu Yan's possession, it was clear how much attention it garnered.

This filial son was likely going to present this item to the Emperor—

This was what everyone thought, including the Emperor himself.

However, Lu Yan merely flipped through the book casually, then without a second glance, tossed it into a nearby tripod incense burner filled with burning charcoal. In an instant, flames leaped up, devouring the ancient book. The hall erupted in exclamations, and many were so shocked they stood up:

"Your Highness, you cannot!"

"How dare you, you insolent brat!"

"Quickly save the book! Save the book!"

The Emperor was also startled, hurriedly ordering a small eunuch to retrieve the book. But Lu Yan deliberately blocked the way, and within moments, the *Scripture of Ascension* was mostly burned, leaving only a few charred pages.

The small eunuch presented it on a tray, but when the Emperor took it, the paper crumbled into black dust. He was heartbroken, his gaze toward Lu Yan tinged with concealed anger. If not for the inappropriate setting, he might have kicked him right there.

"Third Son, why did you burn this book without reason?!"

The Emperor felt that if Lu Yan didn't provide a reasonable explanation, he could beat some sense into his foolish son until he cried for his parents.

Others also lamented, pounding their chests. "Although this item belongs to Your Highness, if you don't want it, you could have given it to someone else. Why destroy such a precious treasure? It truly pains my heart!"

In the face of everyone's confusion and heartache, Lu Yan remained calm. He first bowed to the Emperor, then turned to explain to the crowd:

"Ladies and gentlemen, everyone knows that the *Scripture of Ascension* has miraculous effects, but it requires the extraction of others' inner cores for one's own cultivation. Thus, opinions about it are divided. Some call it divine, while others label it demonic."

"If this item falls into the hands of ordinary people, it would be fine, as they would likely just use it as firewood. However, if it lands in the hands of royalty, there's a fear that those in power might be swayed, recklessly extracting others' inner cores for cultivation, becoming the source of countless calamities."

Lu Yan paused, smiling. He extended his hand above the golden brazier, his fingertips illuminated like jade by the firelight. Countless ashes of paper floated upward, only to be restrained by his inner energy, falling back into the flames as if sealing away a mass of evil thoughts:

"Swordsmanship across the world should rely on individual insight. Rising with the rooster's crow, waking early and sleeping late, one should never seek shortcuts. If this wicked method spreads, and everyone follows suit, neglecting diligent practice, the art of swordsmanship could be destroyed."

"Today, I have obtained this sword manual, a stroke of luck in my life. However, fearing my mortal body and weak will, I have burned it to rid myself of any twisted thoughts. I hope you will not blame me."

After his explanation, Lu Yan bowed deeply to the guests seated around him, his eyes clear, as if transformed from his former self:

"I wish for all noble scholars here to hold your swords in hand and seek the path in your hearts."

He wasn't trying to rid himself of twisted thoughts; rather, he was aiming to rid these people of theirs.

Hearing Lu Yan's words, the Emperor was initially stunned, then slowly sank into his dragon throne, letting out a long sigh. As the ruler of the Twelve Continents, sitting too long in power had made him regress, not as perceptive as Lu Yan.

Among the crowd below, there were no shortage of swordsmanship experts. While some coveted the *Scripture of Ascension*, others held it in contempt. Hearing these words, they couldn't help but ponder in silence, seemingly gaining enlightenment.

Grand Master Xuan stared at the man in crimson robes standing in the middle of the hall, his charm indescribable. A thought struck him, inexplicably reminding him of what the king had said to him on his deathbed before he left:

"Others may view the *Scripture of Ascension* as a supreme treasure, but I see it as a flood beast. Tian Shui possesses valuable resources but lacks the means to protect itself, akin to a child carrying gold through a bustling market, inevitably inviting disaster. You must take this item and offer it to the Emperor. If you can exchange it for Crown Prince Wuyou, it will have served its purpose."

Tian Shui was the wealthiest of the four countries but had the weakest military force. Yet, its ability to remain unshaken in turbulent times showed the king's remarkable skill.

Xuanhong had always believed that the Emperor of Dong Li was too tolerant, the Emperor of Wu Yun was too incompetent, and the Immortal Spirit Emperor possessed the ability to unify the world but had three unworthy sons. Nanxun Wang was reckless and brainless, Guxu Wang was devious and cunning, and Fengling Wang needn't even be mentioned—he couldn't be considered a normal person, barely deserving the title of beast.

When the Emperor passed away, Tian Shui seemed the most likely to rise. But he hadn't expected...

Grand Master Xuan thought that if heaven pitied the Immortal Spirit, the world might continue under that man's rule for another hundred years. He always believed in fate, and his intuition was usually accurate. The cooperation proposed by Zhao Yuxi was unlikely to be accepted.

As the banquet ended and the crowd dispersed, the surface appeared harmonious, but no one knew what was truly on their minds. The Emperor had intended to summon Lu Yan to ask about the hidden sword techniques he had learned, but remembering the private talks with the envoys, he had to put it off, planning to inquire later.

Shang Junnian walked out of the hall with Lu Yan. Below them lay a hundred steps, the night enveloping the majestic imperial city, its lights bright and clear, all within sight.

Lu Yan had wanted to stretch, but his wrist suddenly tightened, caught by Shang Junnian's silent grip. The man's cold and gloomy eyes sparkled with a rare light, though it was unclear whether it was due to the candlelight or the person before him. "Do you regret burning the *Scripture of Ascension*?"

Lu Yan had expected a different question, but it was this. Unfazed, he replied, "An evil object shouldn't linger in this world. Fortunately, I gained a treasured sword. This fight wasn't in vain."

Shang Junnian gave an ambiguous hum. "That sword is excellent. It complements you well."

Lu Yan chuckled. "How so? Have you used that sword?"

Zhao Yuzhang happened to catch up from behind, hearing this and scoffing. "That was originally Junnian's family sword, which was cruelly seized by Zhao Yuxi after he left the country. Do you think he hasn't used it?"

Lu Yan hadn't known about this legal dispute behind the scenes and was taken aback upon hearing it. Instinctively looking at Shang Junnian, he said, "Why didn't you tell me earlier? Luckily, I won the sword back. Otherwise, wouldn't it have been for naught? I'll return it to you when we get back to the mansion."

Shang Junnian lowered his eyes and gently fiddled with the ghost-craft orb hanging from his waist, which Lu Yan also had an identical one of. "It's yours if you win. That sword is too heavy for me to lift now; it suits you perfectly."

If that sword were to fall into someone else's hands, Shang Junnian would naturally feel uncomfortable, and if there was a chance in the future, he would do everything possible to take it back. But if it fell into Lu Yan's hands...

Let it be.

He sighed softly inwardly. If he could follow the other person, why be stingy about a treasured sword?

Upon hearing this, Lu Yan was about to say something when a voice suddenly came from behind him. He saw Zhao Yuxi approaching with his attendants, smiling as he bowed respectfully. "Greetings, King Fengling. Your skills astounded everyone at the arena just now. I admire you greatly and have come to offer my congratulations."

Recalling what Zhao Yuzhang said earlier, Lu Yan's tone became somewhat peculiar. "Prince Yuxi, did you stop this king for something important?"

Zhao Yuxi's smile deepened. "Do you remember what you said before the banquet began?"

He referred to the matter of exchanging Sword Sect's Heart Technique for Shang Junnian and Zhao Yuzhang.

Those passing by stopped upon hearing this, secretly sizing them up, curious about any potential drama unfolding.

Lu Yan nodded. "You mean the matter of exchanging techniques for beauties? This king certainly remembers."

Zhao Yuxi couldn't help but feel even more pleased. "The Sword Sect's Heart Technique is a national treasure and cannot be passed on to outsiders. How about I offer another rare treasure instead? Xianling and Wuyun are friendly neighbors. If you're willing to exchange, wouldn't it be a delightful thing for us to become brothers?"

In response to Zhao Yuxi's inquiry, Lu Yan remained silent. He looked up at the signboard of the Myriad Years Hall and, stroking his chin, asked, "Brothers? Prince Yuxi, do you know that becoming this king's brother requires a test, like King Nanxun?"

King Nanxun, standing nearby watching the spectacle, was unexpectedly mentioned, and an ominous premonition arose within him.

Oddly enough, Zhao Yuxi didn't seem to notice, frowning in confusion. "A test? What kind of test?"

Strange, he hadn't heard news of King Nanxun and King Fengling becoming friends. All he knew was that these two were at odds, and last time, King Fengling harshly kicked King Nanxun in front of the Myriad Years Hall...

"Ah—!!!!"

A sudden intense pain below interrupted Zhao Yuxi's thoughts. He cried out in pain, instinctively bending over to cover his crotch, his eyes tearing up. However, he saw Lu Yan calmly retracting his foot and dusting off his robe:

"It's not that easy to become this king's brother. Don't you agree, big brother?"

Lu Yan smiled slightly at King Nanxun in the crowd behind, deliberately giving a flirtatious glance.