C11 Immortal Sword, Zhao Yang

In the Tian Continent, at Ruin Returning, Changying stood at the water's edge, her deep blue eyes fixed on the vast, churning sea. In a gentle voice, she said, "Master, with the appearance of the Great Beginning White Tiger, it's clear that this era is indeed a time of hidden talents and concealed masters."

The Ruin Returning Master replied, "As descendants of the ancient immortals, our immortal veins have weakened significantly. Yet, the Great Beginning White Tiger Clan has managed to pass down their bloodline through the generations! They can even evolve their immortal bodies into Saint Bodies. That's the truly fearsome aspect of the Great Beginning White Tiger."

"I've perused the annals of history," Changying continued, "and I've seen how, in ancient times, Ruin Returning and the White Tiger Clan shared a close bond, creating many legendary tales. But as time passed, both chose seclusion, and the world changed dramatically, severing our ties. Seeing the name 'Great Beginning White Tiger' now stirs up quite a bit of nostalgia in me."

Lost in thought, the Ruin Returning Master's gaze grew distant for a moment before he let out a wistful sigh. "It brings to mind someone from twelve years ago..."

"That person? There are few who have earned such concern from you, Master. A man or a woman?"

"Changying, you've become quite the gossip," he teased.

"I remain detached from worldly matters, but when it comes to you, Master, a little gossip can be quite enjoyable."

The master shook his head. "That old friend... alas, our connection was too fleeting to mention." His eyes flickered with emotion as he looked up at the Heaven Ranking, fixating on the name "Su Shang" and falling into deep contemplation.

...

In that very moment, a brilliant white light descended from the heavens, the reward for second place on the Heaven Ranking capturing the gaze of many—an allure both overt and subtle. Like the first-place prize, the white light was shrouded in secrecy, its true nature hidden from all but the top three.

At the Armillary Sphere Sect, Xie Feng read from an ancient tome, "The records state that upon awakening their bloodline, each descendant of the Great Beginning White Tiger Clan undergoes a brief period of accelerated physical maturity, which lasts until their true coming of age.

"It's noteworthy that after eons, the White Tiger Clan's descendants have evolved to perfection. Like humans, they reach adulthood at eighteen and possess both the cultivation speed of humans and the endless lifespan of Holy Beasts.

"This rapid maturation is a result of the awakening's energy catalyst, granting the Great Beginning White Tiger Clan's descendants immense, explosive power, often tenfold their original cultivation level.

"However, this matured state rapidly depletes energy and cannot be sustained. They must revert to their original form to conserve and accumulate energy."

Sushang, with her round face cradled in her hands, sat cross-legged nearby, her eyelids heavy with sleep. "Pay attention," Xie Feng chided, tapping her on the head with the book.

The little girl yawned, "Oh—right—I—got—it—"

Xie Feng could only sigh.

...

At that moment, the white light manifested on Armillary Sphere Mountain, transforming into a radiant rainbow that found its mark on Sushang's forehead. Her vision whited out, and then, in her mind's eye, she saw a sword.

Three feet in length, adorned with a sun motif, the sword glowed with a golden brilliance. Its sheath was ornate, surrounded by flames like a halo of yellow clouds. The sword's aura and intent blazed like the fiercest sunlight at dawn, igniting the world in a split second.

The Immortal Sword, Sun Showing Sword!

Simultaneously, a scroll of techniques appeared. Sushang's spirit stirred, and the scroll materialized in her hands, becoming tangible.

The Sun Showing Sword Technique!

An Immortal Technique!

"Look, there's even a sword technique, and it's so thick!"

"Uh, I can't understand it. My aunt never taught me any sword techniques..."

"Oh no, what do I do?"

"I'm ranked second on the Heaven Ranking, but I can't make heads or tails of this technique. Does that make me look foolish?"

Disheartened, Sushang flipped through the pages aimlessly, then began pacing in circles, clutching her head.

Xie Feng tapped her forehead and smiled reassuringly, "Don't worry, little one. I'll teach you."

"Yes, Master!"

"You're beaming with joy."

"Well, my master is the top of the Heaven Ranking, and now you're teaching me swordplay. Of course, I'm—"

"What's that noise?"

"Master, I'm hungry. I want to eat. Your orders, please!"

"At the Tribulation Crossing Stage, fasting is customary. You need neither food nor drink..."

"But eating brings joy~"

"..."

"Please, pretty please?"

Sushang clung to Xie Feng's leg, and with a resigned smile, he tapped her forehead, "You little glutton! Come on, let's head to the back mountain and catch some pheasants."

...

In the East Continent, the Azure Phoenix Clan awaited.

"Goddess, once you've located the Divine Phoenix of Dark Parasol's source, take your time to refine it gradually. Focus on harnessing its energy to bolster your strength. There's no need to rush the advancement of your bloodline just yet."

"The power it holds is immense. Your current Nascent Soul is at Rank Nine, which isn't sufficient. You should wait until after you've crossed the tribulation to enhance your bloodline. By then, you'll surely gain much more!"

In the room, Gu Chen strategized, while Qiuye prepared tea, nodding in agreement with his words. As the Heavenly Lady of the Azure Phoenix Clan, blessed with the undying constitution of her lineage, she needed Gu Chen's vigilant guidance for each step towards her celestial ascension, perhaps even to sainthood!

"The Land of Sanguinity has piqued my interest. The Vast Dragon Clan is likely en route as we speak. Yet, I have this intuition that Xuan Tugu, fearing my intervention, may very well attempt to interfere..."

Gu Chen pondered deeply, his frown deepening. As he lifted a cup of tea, a guard entered to announce, "Your Majesty, Elder Xuan of the Vast Dragon Clan..."

"Patriarch Gu!

"It's been too long. I trust you're well?"

The guard was cut off mid-report by the sudden appearance of an old crone, her prominent hooked nose defining her weathered visage.

Xuan Tugu!

Gu Chen nearly choked on his tea.

Talk about speaking of the devil!

Xuan Tugu entered unabashedly, her cane tapping the floor, clearly accustomed to disregarding decorum.

Qiuye's brow furrowed in distaste.

Gu Chen's expression chilled.

Upon arriving, Xuan Tugu's gaze fixated on Qiuye, her smile broadening as she complimented, "Is this Heavenly Lady Qiuye? Truly a cut above the rest. Patriarch Gu, such a gem must be guarded closely."

Gu Chen directed, "Heavenly Lady, I need to discuss pressing matters with our guest. Please, attend to your other duties."

Qiuye responded with a simple, "Understood."

As Qiuye's elegant form retreated, Xuan Tugu's eyes narrowed. "Does my presence unsettle you, Clan Head Gu?"

Gu Chen offered a disarming smile. "When elders converse, it's not the place for the younger generation to interject."

Xuan Tugu remarked, "To think the Azure Phoenix Clan would produce such a unique individual. I've come to offer my congratulations."

Gu Chen chuckled, "Ah, but surely congratulations aren't the sole purpose of your visit today?"

Xuan Tugu replied, "Our lineages, both dragon and phoenix, have stood allied for ages. It's only natural for me to come and celebrate."

Gu Chen retorted, "It seems only now do I discover the depth of our bond."

Xuan Tugu lightly chided, "You jest, Clan Head Gu."

Gu Chen cut to the chase, "I'm known for my candor. I'm aware of your intentions. Please, take your leave."

"So quick to dismiss me?"

"I have pressing affairs to attend to. We can reconvene another day."

"That gemstone is quite remarkable. Gu Chen, keep a vigilant eye on it. Many covet what you possess."

Xuan Tugu, gripping her staff, gave Gu Chen a sardonic look. Her sagging, wrinkled cheeks and the deep lines etched into her face gave her a menacing, almost ghastly appearance.

"Thank you for the warning, Elder Xuan. Rest assured, I'll be exceedingly cautious."

"Oh, and remember, while the gemstone is indeed exquisite, it belongs to someone. Should any foolhardy soul dare to lay a finger on it, I will mobilize the full might of our clan to personally ensure their end."

Gu Chen's laughter was cold, his hands clasped behind him.

The Vast Dragon Clan and the Azure Phoenix Clan were evenly matched in heritage and power; neither could completely dominate the other.

Yet, Qiuye's emergence threatened to upset this delicate equilibrium—a prospect the slightly more powerful Vast Dragon Clan found disconcerting.

The fierce resolve in Gu Chen's demeanor caused a subtle shift in Xuan Tugu's expression, her mood darkening...