Chapter 117: Ramen-Head, I've Been Sick of You for a Long Time!
Xuanwu True Art is divided into two parts: internal and external.
The internal aspect is Xuanwu Inner Art, while the external aspect is Ten Supreme Martial Paths.
As for Ten Directions Invincible, it is a technique further comprehended on the foundation of Ten Supreme Martial Paths.
What Chu Yang intended to do was reverse-derive the entire process.
When it came to talent and comprehension, with the support of multiple incarnations, Chu Yang was absolutely no inferior to Nie Feng.
If Nie Feng could learn it, there was no reason Chu Yang couldn't.
In half a day, Chu Yang had fully grasped all the essentials of Ten Directions Invincible.
At this point, he had already accomplished his primary objective in coming to Lingyun Cave.
"Below here lies the dragon vein. Unfortunately, it's meaningless to me—taking it wouldn't do much…"
The dragon vein transformed into the spinal bone of the Yellow Emperor Xuanyuan. It couldn't improve cultivation; its sole function was to suppress evil—such as the demonic intent Nie Feng developed due to his madness blood.
Using it as a weapon would even feel a bit awkward.
However, the dragon vein also symbolized the fortune of the nation. Once the dragon vein was destroyed, the world would fall into chaos, and demons would run rampant.
At that time, many old monsters who had faded into obscurity would reappear, stirring the winds of the world. From that perspective, it would actually be a good thing for Chu Yang.
He could freely seize their techniques.
But Chu Yang wasn't willing to do that…
He had always kept to himself and never claimed to be a paragon of virtue, but he still understood the most basic principles.
When the world falls into chaos, the ones who suffer are never those who stir the storm. Life and death become nothing more than the outcome of winners and losers.
Those who truly suffer are the ordinary people who just want to live their lives.
When gods fight, mortals suffer. When the city gate catches fire, even the fish in the moat are scorched.
A few words were enough to lay bare the plight of common folk.
If his own greed plunged these innocent people into misery, Chu Yang simply wouldn't be able to get past it.
"It's better if this dragon vein stays with me. Even if disaster becomes unavoidable someday, at least my heart will be at peace."
Chu Yang decided to take the dragon vein with him.
At the same time—
The Tianxia Association had just gone through a catastrophe.
Xiongba had married his adopted daughter, Kong Ci, to his eldest disciple, Qin Shuang.
Bu Jingyun, who had always loved Kong Ci, attempted to abduct her on the wedding night, but was stopped by Nie Feng.
The two clashed violently. In the midst of the battle, Bu Jingyun accidentally injured Kong Ci, shattering her heart meridians and killing her.
In the end, Bu Jingyun left with Kong Ci's body, officially becoming enemies with the Tianxia Association and Nie Feng.
"I was so stupid… truly stupid! I should've believed what A-Yang said and explained things to Senior Brother Yun earlier, letting him take Kong Ci away."
"I actually believed that Master still held any trace of affection toward the three of us…"
In the Wind God Hall, Nie Feng clutched Mingyue, sobbing in regret over his foolishness. Because of his own soft-heartedness, Kong Ci—who had grown up with them like a younger sister—had died.
"This isn't your fault. Fate was simply destined this way. And given Bu Jingyun's personality, if something like this hadn't happened, he probably wouldn't have believed you anyway."
"As for Qin Shuang, his loyalty to Xiongba is even stronger than yours…"
"Feng, let's go. While Xiongba hasn't turned his killing intent toward you yet, let's leave the Tianxia Association and find somewhere to live in seclusion, never meddling in worldly affairs again."
Mingyue held Nie Feng, gently soothing his pain.
But Nie Feng seemed oblivious to her words. His eyes were shut, his lips muttering incessantly, his body trembling more and more violently.
It was as if he was about to fall into some kind of madness.
Mingyue didn't notice, thinking he was simply overwhelmed with grief.
Suddenly—
Nie Feng seized Mingyue's wrist with terrifying force, making her cry out in pain.
"Feng, what are you doing?!"
Mingyue lowered her head and met Nie Feng's scarlet eyes. Demonic energy surged within them, devoid of any trace of humanity.
She turned pale in shock and tried to break free.
But Nie Feng, already consumed by madness, had lost all reason. Not only did he keep gripping her wrist, he even tried to seize her throat.
At the critical moment, the Peerless Sword resting nearby burst into light. A dark-green barrier enveloped Mingyue, blasting Nie Feng backward.
This was the defensive array Chu Yang had prepared in advance—originally meant for Xiongba. He hadn't expected it to be used on Nie Feng instead.
Though temporarily safe, Mingyue was utterly terrified. She never imagined Nie Feng would attack her.
"Feng, what's wrong with you?"
"Look at me carefully—I'm Mingyue!"
"Don't scare me like this, please!"
No matter how she called out, Nie Feng remained expressionless, eyes locked onto her as he continued advancing.
Even with the barrier's protection, despair surfaced on Mingyue's face.
Nie Feng had gone mad. What meaning did her life still hold?
Just as Nie Feng pressed his hand against the barrier, the Peerless Sword was suffused with a faint golden glow once more.
That was another array.
"Ah… so the madness blood has finally erupted. I thought that as long as nothing happened to Mingyue, you'd never fall into this state."
Chu Yang's voice sounded behind Nie Feng.
Nie Feng spun around—and was greeted by a bare spinal bone whipping violently across his handsome face.
The blow sent Nie Feng spinning in place, the demonic aura in his eyes fading slightly.
Mingyue stared in amazement at Chu Yang's sudden appearance. Before she could explain what had happened, she watched him swing the spinal bone again.
Nie Feng activated the Wind God Leg, his figure instantly becoming ghostlike, about to evade the strike.
But Chu Yang's speed surged as well, transforming into a golden flash that appeared behind Nie Feng, gripping his neck.
Then he resumed beating him with the spinal bone.
Nie Feng screamed miserably, his former cool demeanor utterly shattered.
In truth, Chu Yang could have simply handed the dragon vein to Nie Feng. As long as it stayed nearby, it would suppress the demonic energy within him.
But if he didn't beat this kid up first, Chu Yang just wouldn't feel satisfied.
Seeing Nie Feng gradually return to normal, Mingyue felt heartbroken but didn't rashly stop Chu Yang.
"Stop, stop! A-Yang, stop already—I'm dying from the pain!"
Beaten into a pig's head, Nie Feng begged nonstop. He had clearly regained his senses—if he didn't speak up, he might actually be beaten to death.
"Sure you're conscious now?"
"Absolutely! I've never been this clear-headed in my life!"
Nie Feng was on the verge of tears.
Chu Yang reluctantly let him go.
"Feng, are you alright?"
Mingyue rushed forward crying, throwing herself into his arms like a swallow returning to its nest.
"I'm fine now. Don't worry."
Nie Feng looked at her with lingering fear.
If Chu Yang hadn't arrived in time, the consequences would have been unimaginable.
Mingyue turned to Chu Yang. "A-Yang, do you know what just happened?"
Chu Yang explained, "An ancestor of the Nie family once fought the Fire Qilin and accidentally came into contact with Qilin blood, which was passed down through the bloodline. Although the Qilin is an auspicious beast, its blood drives people insane and gradually leads them down the demonic path."
Hearing this, both Mingyue and Nie Feng turned pale.
Nie Feng could fall into demonic madness at any time—meaning Mingyue would always be in danger.
"Mingyue… it seems I can't stay by your side anymore."
"No! Feng—even if it means death, I want to be with you!"
They gazed at each other with deep affection.
Chu Yang got goosebumps all over and couldn't help interrupting. "Qilin blood is powerful, but it's not completely hopeless."
His dramatic pause sent their hearts jumping.
Mingyue and Nie Feng shot him resentful looks.
If it's important, please say it sooner next time!
"I can extract the Qilin blood, but doing so will make Nie Feng lose a chance to grow stronger. If he can suppress and master the madness blood, his strength will rise to a terrifying level."
Chu Yang decided to give Nie Feng the choice. This was Nie Feng's own opportunity—no one else should decide for him.
"Then please help me extract the Qilin blood."
Nie Feng's stance was resolute. The moment he realized he might hurt Mingyue, he had already decided to abandon that power.
"The power of the madness blood would let you easily surpass Xiongba," Chu Yang reminded him again.
"I know," Nie Feng replied firmly. "But I don't want it. I almost killed Mingyue just now. I hate this power."
Nie Feng answered decisively.
Chu Yang nodded. Being deeply emotional was Nie Feng's greatest strength—and also his greatest weakness. His choices were never made rationally.
Having devoured all of the Fire Qilin's blood, Chu Yang could clearly sense the existence of the madness blood within Nie Feng. With a single thought, he could provoke it into action.
The moment the Qilin blood was stirred, Nie Feng was wracked with agony.
It felt as though Chu Yang was forcibly tearing away something vitally important from his body—without anesthesia.
Nie Feng's hair rapidly turned from black to white, his skin shriveled, and in an instant he looked like a frail old man.
This was the state of losing a massive amount of vitality in a short period of time.
Chu Yang immediately replenished Nie Feng with pure life force. His skin quickly returned to normal, but the head of white hair remained unchanged.
Mingyue clenched her teeth, anxiously watching Nie Feng.
Moments later—
All of the Qilin blood within Nie Feng was completely purged. He looked as though he had just recovered from a grave illness, utterly exhausted.
After barely managing to thank Chu Yang, Nie Feng collapsed to the ground. Mingyue hurried over and supported him.
"The madness blood is gone. Tell me what's happened recently," Chu Yang said.
Chu Yang had stayed in Lingyun Cave for quite some time and had no idea what had transpired outside.
Nie Feng, looking dispirited, recounted how Bu Jingyun had fallen out with the Tianxia Association, blaming himself for not listening to Chu Yang's advice, which ultimately led to Kong Ci's death during their conflict.
Chu Yang could only sigh. "Timing and fate."
"I never thought Mas—Xiongba would be so ruthless. If Senior Brother Yun returns, I'll definitely join him in killing that old thief!"
Nie Feng clenched his fists in fury.
"If Bu Jingyun comes back, he might kill you along with Xiongba. He hates Xiongba—but does he not hate you as well?"
"I told you long ago not to judge a girl's feelings based on your own thoughts."
Chu Yang's voice was cold and detached.
Nie Feng let out a bitter smile, sinking into deep self-reproach.
"Feng, let's go. Let's find a place with no people and live in seclusion," Mingyue pleaded earnestly. She truly didn't want to be dragged into endless strife.
"With Wushuang City fallen, the Tianxia Association is firmly the number one power now. Its influence spans the entire land. If Xiongba wants to find us, there's nowhere we can hide…"
"Even someone like Mud Bodhisattva couldn't escape."
Nie Feng's meaning was clear: unless Bu Jingyun and he joined forces to kill Xiongba, he and Mingyue would never escape the Tianxia Association's pursuit.
Mingyue was about to argue again when Chu Yang suddenly raised a hand to stop her and said, "On this point, I agree with Nie Feng. As long as Xiongba lives, you'll never have peaceful days."
"I'll take care of Xiongba. Once that's done, our life-saving debt is settled—we owe each other nothing."
Chu Yang's words sounded like he was deliberately drawing a line between himself and Mingyue, which left her feeling uncomfortable. She silently nodded.
Nie Feng sighed softly, feeling some regret. In his eyes, Chu Yang was a loyal friend. If only he had listened to him earlier, things might not have turned out this way.
"Then when do you plan to act?" Nie Feng asked.
"In a few days. When the Sword Saint arrives, I'll move then."
"You plan to face both Xiongba and the Sword Saint at the same time? A-Yang, I know your martial arts are extraordinary, but this is too reckless."
"The Sword Saint's fate has already run its course. He can barely unleash one final sword strike. I want to see that last strike."
Understanding Chu Yang's intent, Nie Feng and Mingyue stopped trying to persuade him and prepared to leave the Tianxia Association.
Before they departed, Chu Yang handed the Snow-Drinking Blade and a written copy of the Six Moves of Proud Coldness to Nie Feng. "These are things I found in Lingyun Cave. They're your Nie family's blade and blade technique."
Nie Feng accepted them solemnly, tears glimmering faintly in his eyes. Back then, he had personally witnessed his father being dragged into Lingyun Cave by the Fire Qilin.
Seeing these items now was enough to confirm his father's fate.
"Such a great kindness cannot be repaid with words. I hope there will be a chance to repay you in the future."
Nie Feng clasped his fists, his gaze resolute.
With everything that needed to be given already handed over, Chu Yang left ahead of them, his figure disappearing into the night.
Nie Feng held Mingyue's hand. He took nothing from the Wind God Hall and walked out of the Tianxia Association without looking back.
A few days later—
Dugu Sword Saint of Wushuang City suddenly appeared at the Tianxia Association, declaring that seven days later he would fight Xiongba to the death.
Even without Duan Lang delivering the message, other disciples would still have sought him out, asking him to stand up for Wushuang City.
Proud as he was, Xiongba naturally accepted the challenge.
The Sword Saint left, satisfied.
In an instant, the impending duel shook the entire martial world. All under heaven were watching this confrontation.
When the Sword Saint departed, Chu Yang followed closely behind him.
He knew the Sword Saint was going to see Nameless.
Before long, Nameless's disciple Jian Chen appeared, and the two fought. Chu Yang hid at a distance, observing their sword techniques.
The Sword Saint had yet to comprehend Sword Twenty-Three of the Saint Spirit Sword Art. The moves from Sword One to Sword Twenty-Two he displayed were completely neutralized by a single move from Jian Chen's Nameless Sword Art: "Unknown to the World."
This move embodied Nameless's lifelong experience from countless battles with the Sword Saint, all of which he had passed on to Jian Chen. It wasn't that Jian Chen's strength surpassed the Sword Saint's.
Both sword arts were excellent, but what Chu Yang truly wanted to see were Sword Twenty-Three and Nameless's Myriad Swords Returning to the Origin.
After his defeat, the Sword Saint burst into laughter, utterly free and unrestrained. Even in total loss, he did not vent his anger on Jian Chen.
It was a case of no fight, no acquaintance. Jian Chen then brought the Sword Saint to meet his master, Nameless.
Naturally, Chu Yang followed them.
As night fell, the two entered a small courtyard.
From afar, Chu Yang heard the sound of an erhu, its melody mournful and lingering, enough to draw tears from the listener.
After confirming Nameless's residence, Chu Yang was about to leave when a weathered voice suddenly sounded beside his ear.
"Little friend, since you've come, why not enter the courtyard and sit for a while? Allow me to play the host."
Chu Yang had been extremely cautious, using both magic and ninjutsu to conceal his presence. Most experts should have been incapable of detecting him.
Yet Nameless still noticed.
All he could say was that the Heaven Sword realm was truly terrifying.
If not for the world's inherent power limits, these people might genuinely have been able to contend with captain-level figures from the Shinigami world.
Since he'd been discovered, Chu Yang stopped hiding and openly stepped out of the darkness into the courtyard.
Inside, Nameless had prepared a table of food and wine and was sitting opposite the Sword Saint, while his disciple Jian Chen stood to the side holding the Hero Sword.
Both men looked at Chu Yang in surprise.
Nameless smiled. "This is the one who followed you both here."
The Sword Saint's expression darkened. He hadn't noticed anyone tailing him at all—which should have been impossible given his cultivation.
When he looked at Chu Yang again, he realized how young the man was, even younger than Jian Chen beside him.
The Sword Saint paused, then murmured, "Truly, the younger generation is formidable."
Jian Chen, however, was far less calm. In his eyes, Chu Yang was clearly no good person. He asked in a deep voice, "Who are you, and why do you act so furtively?"
Chu Yang rolled his eyes. Would a bad guy really explain everything he was doing in detail?
Seeing that this suspicious character ignored him, Jian Chen felt a surge of anger. Sword in hand, he leapt forward, immediately using the same Nameless Sword Art he had just employed against the Sword Saint.
Using Observation Haki to predict Jian Chen's movements, Chu Yang activated the Dragon Elephant Prajna Art. With the power of twenty dragons and twenty elephants, he flicked his finger forward.
His fingertip collided with the tip of the Hero Sword, and an overwhelming force erupted.
Jian Chen was blasted straight backward. The Hero Sword in his hand let out a continuous ringing—at first listen, it sounded like a human scream in mortal peril.
Both Nameless and the Sword Saint revealed grave expressions.
The Hero Sword was no common trash you'd find on the street. It was a divine weapon forged a thousand years ago by the founder of the Sword Sect, the Great Swordmaster.
Divine weapons possess spirit. Its mournful cry now suggested it had suffered pain beyond what it could bear.
This was not something an ordinary expert could accomplish.
"Jian Chen, come back!"
Nameless, who had initially intended to let Jian Chen probe Chu Yang's strength, suddenly grew anxious.
Jian Chen, being young, couldn't swallow the humiliation of being sent flying by a single blow. Anger flared in his heart. Ignoring his master's command, he thrust his sword again.
Chu Yang had no desire to make enemies of Nameless. He restrained himself, using the Dragon-Grasping Hand to directly pull the Hero Sword out of Jian Chen's grip.
Losing the Hero Sword, Jian Chen was shocked, furious, and fearful of his master's reprimand.
"Excellent move!" the Sword Saint couldn't help but shout in praise.
"Indeed, exquisite," Nameless agreed with a smile.
Jian Chen's face darkened further. He didn't dare utter a single word.
Chu Yang twirled the sword with a flourish and casually tossed it back. The Hero Sword slid neatly into its scabbard. He clasped his hands and smiled. "Forgive my clumsy display before the two seniors."
Both Chu Yang's martial prowess and his attitude earned the favor of Nameless and the Sword Saint, and their demeanor toward him grew much warmer.
"Since you've come from afar, why not sit and chat with us?" Nameless invited.
"Many thanks," Chu Yang replied.
He took a seat without pretension.
Jian Chen turned his head away, out of sight and out of mind.
"May I ask your honored name, young friend, and why you followed this old man?" the Sword Saint asked, his gaze sharp yet courteous.
"A nobody's name isn't worth mentioning. You can just call me A-Yang," Chu Yang said with a smile. "As for why I followed you, Sword Saint…"
"It's said that Sword Saint and Heaven Sword Nameless have crossed blades countless times in life—both rivals and close friends. Before your final battle of your lifetime, you would surely want to see your old friend one last time."
Nameless asked, "So you came to see me?"
Chu Yang nodded. "Precisely—to seek guidance from Senior on the art of the sword."
Nameless was about to refuse when the Sword Saint suddenly raised a hand to interrupt him, staring coldly at Chu Yang.
"Final battle of my life? Are you saying you're certain I'll lose to Xiongba?"
Chu Yang shook his head. "Not lose—die. Senior's vitality is fading; you're already a candle in the wind. You may not even get the chance to deliver that final sword strike to Xiongba."
Nameless looked at Chu Yang in surprise. He had sensed that the Sword Saint's fate was nearly exhausted as well, which was precisely why he had deliberately met him—to persuade him to abandon the duel with Xiongba.
He hadn't expected this young man to know it too.
The Sword Saint's expression turned complicated. No one understood his own body better than he did. If he weren't already at the end of his strength, why would he be in such a hurry?
Nameless seized the moment to persuade him again, but the Sword Saint no longer wished to listen and simply closed his eyes in silence.
Nameless sighed and turned his gaze back to Chu Yang. "Little brother A-Yang, I am no longer part of the martial world. I'm afraid I cannot grant your request."
Chu Yang smiled. "Senior, there's no need to rush. I have a piece of information here that I can use to make a deal with you. If, after hearing it, you still don't wish to act, I'll leave immediately and won't trouble you any further. How about it?"
Nameless hesitated briefly, then slowly nodded.
Since the other party spoke with such confidence, Nameless couldn't help but feel curious about what information Chu Yang intended to use in exchange for his action.
"Senior Nameless, your wife died years ago from a strange poison, didn't she?"
"Yes. That poison was colorless and odorless. I searched all of the Central Plains but found no trace of it."
"The poison came from the Eastern Isles. Naturally, you wouldn't have been able to find it."
"You know who poisoned my wife?"
"The poison was personally obtained in the Eastern Isles by Jian Hui's son—your senior brother, Po Jun."
The moment these words fell, the calm surface of Nameless's face finally rippled. His aura surged, sharp and overwhelming.
"Where did you learn of this?"
Nameless's tone grew far colder than before.
Chu Yang didn't answer directly, instead giving the motive. "If you hadn't intervened back then, Jian Hui would have already passed the Myriad Swords Returning to the Origin to Po Jun. He has harbored this hatred ever since."
Nameless, of course, knew this himself.
Fury made Nameless's entire body tremble, killing intent overflowing. The wine table in front of them was shredded into powder by invisible sword qi.
The Sword Saint remained silent, his thoughts drifting to the Eastern Isles as well. Long ago, there had been a woman he deeply loved there too.
Unfortunately, he had severed emotion and affection, to the point where her face had nearly faded from his memory.
After venting, Nameless closed his eyes and steadied his breath. After a long while, he finally calmed down.
"If this information is true, it is indeed worth my action."
Nameless regained his tranquil demeanor.
"The truth of it is easy to verify. Po Jun will soon seek you out. When the time comes, you can confront him directly."
"Before that, however, would Senior be willing to grant me some guidance?"
"So that I may first collect a bit of interest."
Chu Yang stood up, an intangible pressure bearing down on Nameless.
He respected Nameless's character, just as he respected Zhang Sanfeng. He had already gone as far as he could.
If it were someone like Di Shitian or Absolute God, he would have already thrown hands and beaten them senseless.
When Chu Yang named Po Jun as the culprit, Nameless already believed it seven or eight parts.
Thus, he agreed to Chu Yang's request.
"Come with me to the woods outside the town."
Nameless spoke calmly and rose, walking out of the courtyard.
Jian Chen suddenly stepped forward to block his path, anxiously saying, "Master, you haven't acted in many years. Why break your vow for such a person?"
Nameless frowned, but still patted Jian Chen's shoulder. "Chen'er, you know this matter has always been my heart demon. Now that there's a chance to settle it, both emotionally and logically, I should thank this young man."
Jian Chen lowered his voice. "Master, this man's origins are unclear. His words may not be trustworthy."
"I have my own judgment." After saying this, Nameless gently pushed Jian Chen aside and walked out.
Chu Yang glanced at Jian Chen with a half-smile and joked, "If one day you become a villain, I will kill you. Let these two seniors bear witness."
Jian Chen shuddered involuntarily.
Nameless turned back and gave Chu Yang a baffled look. The Hero Sword successor he had chosen—how could he possibly be a villain?
The Sword Saint burst into laughter. "You brat, you actually dare say something like that right in front of Nameless? That suits my taste! I hope you won't lose too miserably later."
Chu Yang smiled and nodded. "I'll make sure Senior's wish comes true."
Before long, they arrived at a forest.
There was no one around, so there was no worry of involving bystanders. They could freely unleash their martial arts.
As the senior, Nameless naturally displayed senior decorum. He raised a hand, signaling Chu Yang to strike first, and said, "You're young. After three moves, I'll counterattack."
"Then I won't hold back."
Chu Yang clenched his hand in midair, and a blazing-red sword appeared in his grasp. Heat radiated from the blade, causing the temperature of the nighttime forest to rise sharply.
It was the Fire Lin Sword he had taken from Lingyun Cave.
Nameless's gaze sharpened. In that instant, the Fire Lin Sword had appeared in Chu Yang's hand—he had no idea how Chu Yang had done it.
Chu Yang had long been accustomed to storing items in the space created by the Undetectable Extension Charm, retrieving them whenever he wished.
"That sword resembles the legendary Fire Lin Sword," the well-informed Sword Saint said at once.
"Despicable."
Jian Chen glared viciously at Chu Yang, believing he was deliberately using a divine weapon to gain an advantage over his master. If he handed the Hero Sword to Nameless now, it would instead indirectly elevate Chu Yang's strength.
Nameless, however, looked unconcerned. He stood unmoving, his aura like endless mountain ranges, calmly waiting for Chu Yang to strike.
Chu Yang's opening stance was the first form of the Taiji Sword.
"You're a Taiji successor?" Nameless asked in surprise.
Taiji also existed in this world, but compared to what Zhang Sanfeng personally created, it lacked true intent. It was utterly incomparable to the Taiji Sword Chu Yang was displaying.
As Chu Yang's Taiji true intent unfolded, the two of them were instantly enveloped by a black-and-white yin–yang diagram, each standing upon the eye of a yin–yang fish.
The Sword Saint's eyes lit up. "Excellent swordsmanship! This Taiji Sword of yours is utterly different from anything I've seen before. Where did you learn it?"
Nameless looked at Chu Yang with equal curiosity.
Chu Yang replied softly, "From a Daoist friend."
Nameless nodded. "This sword art is balanced and upright, following the natural Dao. It must have been created by a Daoist master."
The Sword Saint sighed. "So swordsmanship need not seek sharpness to be so exquisite. Truly eye-opening."
The two praised him back and forth, making Jian Chen seethe with jealousy.
In all these years, Nameless had never praised him the way he praised Chu Yang.
Taiji Sword Intent excelled at defense but not offense. Once the yin–yang diagram appeared, Chu Yang's sword style shifted again—this time to the Nine Swords of Dugu.
The Nine Swords of Dugu emphasized attack over defense, perfectly complementing Taiji Sword Intent.
With two sword arts of profound intent appearing together, Nameless and the Sword Saint couldn't hide their shock.
"This man is a sword dao genius no less than myself!"
Having retired from the martial world for many years, Nameless felt an itch in his heart for the first time. If not for his status as a senior, he would have already struck.
In the next instant, Chu Yang used the "Breaking Qi Form" to attack Nameless, who was protected by sword qi.
The Nine Swords of Dugu were not truly a fixed set of moves, but a martial theory. In different hands, they produced different power.
In Chu Yang's hands, it was an ultimate art on par with the Nameless Sword Art, capable of threatening Nameless before he comprehended Myriad Swords Returning to the Origin.
The subtlety of the Breaking Qi Form had once been described by Feng Qingyang as "divinely illuminating, residing entirely in the heart."
Thus, in an instant, Nameless's protective sword qi was broken through, and the Fire Lin Sword shot straight toward his vital points.
Nameless was startled.
Relying on the combat instincts honed over many years, he twisted aside to evade the strike.
Even so, the Fire Lin Sword's heat burned a large hole through his chest garments.
Nameless's old face flushed red.
In just one exchange, the so-called Martial World Myth had nearly capsized.
The Sword Saint, watching from the side, was so shocked he almost tore out his beard.
"Chen'er, pass me the sword!"
Casting aside all concern for face, Nameless could only have Jian Chen throw him the Hero Sword—otherwise, he truly might have embarrassed himself within three moves.
Jian Chen seemed stunned, clutching the Hero Sword without moving.
"Your master told you to pass the sword!"
The Sword Saint slapped Jian Chen hard on the back, snapping him awake. He hurriedly threw the sword over.
Catching the Hero Sword, Nameless's aura changed. Only then did he truly engage Chu Yang, the three-move agreement already null and void.
Originally, Nameless had reached the Heaven Sword realm—no sword was better than a sword. Whether he held the Hero Sword or not made little difference to him.
But Chu Yang's Breaking Qi Form specifically countered his sword qi. Without the Hero Sword, Nameless would be severely restricted.
This was a situation he had never encountered before, leaving even Nameless momentarily at a loss.
Hero Sword in hand, Nameless used the Nameless Sword Art, while Chu Yang shifted again, responding with the "Breaking Sword Form."
The two exchanged blows for a while, and the Sword Saint realized that Chu Yang's sword art once more completely restrained the Nameless Sword Art.
"This boy should be seeing Nameless for the first time today—why is every move and every form so perfectly restraining him?"
Nameless's thoughts were much the same as the Sword Saint's, so he abruptly changed his sword style, switching instead to the Sword Saint's Holy Spirit Sword Art.
After battling the Sword Saint for many years, Nameless had long since studied this sword art thoroughly. Otherwise, the Nameless Sword Art would never have developed techniques specifically designed to counter it.
Having already seen the Holy Spirit Sword Art once, Chu Yang now used the Breaking Sword Form to dismantle it again. It was like taking an open-book exam—easier than drinking water.
Before long, Nameless once again felt that familiar sense of being restrained, as if a massive boulder were pressing down on his chest, leaving him unbearably stifled.
The Sword Saint, who had been watching intently, suddenly realized something. Chu Yang's sword art didn't just counter the Nameless Sword Art—it countered all sword techniques!
"How can such a bizarre martial art exist in this world?!"
The Sword Saint was deeply inspired, his eyes locked onto Chu Yang as if something deep within him was on the verge of breaking through.
"My Sword Twenty-Three…"
"It's done!"
Chu Yang's combat power far exceeded the limits of the Fengyun world. In his hands, the Taiji True Intent and the Nine Swords of Dugu unleashed terrifying might.
All of Nameless's lifelong sword techniques were effortlessly neutralized by Chu Yang's Taiji True Intent.
The endlessly circulating yin–yang fish formation left a deep psychological shadow on Nameless.
The battle continued until Nameless was completely exhausted, only then coming to an end.
Aside from Myriad Swords Returning to the Origin, Chu Yang had now memorized every single one of Nameless's martial arts.
A small profit.
As for the true Myriad Swords Returning to the Origin, he would likely need Po Jun to appear to obtain it. When that time came, Nameless would probably have to suffer a bit.
Meanwhile, the Sword Saint sat cross-legged, entering a profound meditative state.
Sword intent flowed through his body like a gentle stream, ceaseless and cyclical.
"He's comprehending Sword Twenty-Three…"
Nameless knew that the Sword Saint had gained enlightenment after witnessing the duel between himself and Chu Yang.
He could sense that the Sword Saint's Holy Spirit Sword Art was about to advance even further, reaching an unprecedented realm of swordsmanship.
"Once this move is unleashed, it will surely shock heaven and make ghosts weep," Nameless murmured.
"Whether it shocks heaven or not, I don't know. I only know Xiongba is done for," Chu Yang said casually.
Taking advantage of Nameless and Jian Chen not paying attention, Chu Yang quietly stored away the Fire Lin Sword again, then patiently waited for the Sword Saint to fully comprehend Sword Twenty-Three.
Time slowly passed, and a pale light appeared on the horizon.
When the Sword Saint opened his eyes again, his aura had completely changed. Like Nameless, his sharpness had fully retracted.
Nameless looked at him with admiration.
The Sword Saint stood up and said to Nameless, "I'm leaving."
Nameless hesitated, still wanting to persuade him.
The Sword Saint smiled. "If I don't use this sword on Xiongba, I'll die with regrets."
Nameless could only shake his head helplessly.
"I'll see Senior off," Chu Yang said, standing beside the Sword Saint.
"That's fine. If not for you, Sword Twenty-Three might never have been born. For this final sword, watch carefully and pass it on for me."
The Sword Saint seemed to sense Chu Yang's intent, but he didn't mind. Such a world-shaking sword technique would be a shame to let be buried with him.
Under Nameless's silent gaze, the Sword Saint and Chu Yang departed together.
The World Society was now bustling, heroes gathering in droves. Xiongba's reputation had reached its peak.
All of this was thanks to the Sword Saint.
Everyone knew that the outcome of the duel between the Sword Saint and Xiongba would decide who would become the number one power in the martial world.
If the Sword Saint won, it would be Unmatched City's victory.If Xiongba won, it would be the World Society's triumph.
That said, many secretly hoped for mutual destruction—watching both Unmatched City and the World Society fall.
Then the heroes would contend for supremacy, each hoping to become the next Xiongba.
Seven days had passed.
All the invited martial heroes gathered before the World's Number One Tower, eagerly awaiting the Sword Saint's arrival.
The sun climbed high.
The appointed time had long since passed.
Yet the Sword Saint still hadn't appeared.
"Why hasn't the Sword Saint come yet? Could he be afraid before the fight?""If that gets out, it'll be a colossal joke!""Leader Xiongba's divine might scared the Sword Saint into hiding—haha!""Nonsense! The Sword Saint has been famous for decades and even crossed blades with Nameless. How could he fear a fight?!"
Arguments erupted among the crowd.
Xiongba watched coldly, an ominous feeling stirring within him.
He knew the Sword Saint would never skip the duel.
But where was that old man? What was he doing? His informants knew nothing—as if the Sword Saint had vanished from the world entirely. Xiongba deeply disliked this sense of losing control.
At the same time…
The Sword Saint was already outside the World Society.
Along the way, he and Chu Yang had exchanged insights, losing track of time and missing the duel.
Though the Sword Saint's vitality was exhausted, his eyes gleamed with vigor, his spirit stronger than ever.
"My body can only carry me this far. Next, I must draw my sword."
"On the way here, I already explained the profundities of Sword Twenty-Three to you. You must focus and watch carefully."
"I can't strike a second time."
The Sword Saint smiled faintly, utterly unafraid of death.
"Please strike, Senior. I'll guard your physical body here, so no petty scoundrel ruins the moment," Chu Yang said, gesturing politely.
The Sword Saint had originally planned for Chu Yang to go to the World's Number One Tower first, then unleash the sword so Chu Yang could witness the entire process.
But Chu Yang seemed uninterested in doing that, remaining quietly at his side.
"As you wish."
As his words fell, golden light flashed around the Sword Saint. His soul left his body, drifting toward the World's Number One Tower.
Single-mindedly intent on slaying Xiongba, the Sword Saint didn't notice that another Chu Yang had appeared behind him out of thin air.
Chu Yang indeed hadn't gone to the tower—but his shadow clone had.
Soul traversal was incredibly fast. In the blink of an eye, the Sword Saint arrived at the World's Number One Tower, seeing Xiongba seated on his throne, accepting congratulations.
Since the Sword Saint had failed to arrive on time, by the rules, victory already belonged to Xiongba.
And so—
The Sword Saint's soul boomed, "Apologies for keeping everyone waiting. I have one sword—today, I ask Leader Xiongba for guidance!"
In an instant—
Golden light exploded across the World's Number One Tower!
Blinded by the radiance, the crowd couldn't open their eyes.
Under the golden glow, everyone froze in place, helplessly watching the Sword Saint fly toward Xiongba, forming a sword with his finger and thrusting at his vital point.
Xiongba was shocked and furious, yet his body refused to obey him. He could only watch as the Sword Saint struck him.
Unprecedented terror filled Xiongba's heart.
Am I going to die?
With the world's power now firmly in his grasp, Xiongba couldn't accept that he was about to die.
Outside the World Society—
Several figures quietly appeared near the Sword Saint's physical body.
A familiar face, Jian Chen.
A cute young girl.
And… a cold, sharp-featured youth with an annoyed expression and a head of instant-noodle hair.
Just from his looks, Chu Yang could tell the youth was Bu Jingyun, while the girl was Chu Chu.
"Has Senior Sword Saint already unleashed Sword Twenty-Three?" Jian Chen asked Chu Yang upon noticing the Sword Saint's strange posture.
"Why are you here?" Chu Yang retorted.
"My master feared that if Senior Sword Saint lost, Xiongba would vent his anger on the people of Unmatched City, so he sent me here to mediate," Jian Chen replied, maintaining proper respect despite his dislike for Chu Yang.
"What's the point of telling him that? Get out of my way—Xiongba's life is mine to take!"
Bu Jingyun clearly knew about Sword Twenty-Three. Afraid the Sword Saint would truly kill Xiongba and rob him of his vengeance, he charged toward the Sword Saint's body.
"I've been annoyed with you for a long time—just like Star-Lord, you're a pig teammate!"
If not for Bu Jingyun, Xiongba would've been dead long ago. He singlehandedly caused all these extra plotlines—just like Star-Lord, a top-tier war criminal.
Chu Yang kicked him square in the face.
Bu Jingyun raised his sword to block—the next instant, man and sword flew away together, crashing onto the steps and passing out cold.
(End of Chapter)