C69 Elder Hee's Ability
The persistent knocking at the door signaled to Yu Kun that his long-awaited reward from the sect had finally arrived. As per the customs of the Flying Cloud Sect, those who ascended to the rank of Inner Sect disciple were bestowed with gifts, including standard items like clothing and tokens, as well as Spirit Stones and access to the Cultivation Room.
Moreover, having secured first place in both competition rounds, Yu Kun was entitled to an additional prize—a Martial Arts technique.
Yu Kun swung the door open and stepped out into the courtyard, where he was met by two disciples wearing impatient scowls. Clad in the garb of Inner Sect disciples, they looked down on him with contempt. "Took you long enough, trash. Here are the clothes and rewards from the sect," they said, tossing the items at Yu Kun with disdain.
Unperturbed by their behavior, Yu Kun caught the items and watched as they swiftly turned to leave. He then began to inspect his new possessions.
"Hold on, something's missing from the rewards," Yu Kun called out, stopping them in their tracks. "Why are there only half the Spirit Stones I'm due? And where's the pass to enter the Cultivation Room?"
The two halted, surprise flashing across their faces before they spun around with a sneer. "Someone like you, who can't even form a Martial Soul, doesn't need all that. Why would you need access to the Cultivation Room?"
"That's right. We only gave you half the Spirit Stones. But you still got fifty, which is probably more than you've ever seen," they taunted.
Yu Kun retorted coolly, "I have a feeling you've never seen a real punch."
"So, you're looking for a fight!" the Inner Sect disciple on the left scoffed. "If you're bold enough to claim you've surpassed us Inner Sect disciples at the Test Square, then show us what you've got. Let's see how you plan to outdo an Inner Sect disciple like me!"
With that, he passed his belongings to his companion and stood before Yu Kun with an air of arrogance. "Remember this—the one who's going to beat you is named Zheng Quan'an." And with those words, Zheng Quan'an unleashed his Martial Soul.
Chen Feng had previously wielded the Soldier Martial Spirit, while Zheng Quan'an now summoned the Dust Martial Soul.
Yu Kun was aware that the Dust Martial Soul could greatly obscure the traces of Martial Arts, rendering the opponent's attacks undetectable.
"So, you've cultivated the Dust Martial Soul. Even with that up your sleeve, you're no match for me. Vajra Worshipping Moon!"
Yu Kun channeled his Astral Energy and unleashed the Vajra Worshipping Moon technique without delay.
Zheng Quan'an scoffed, "My Martial Soul may not be top-tier, but you don't even possess one."
Their martial arts clashed, each move neutralizing the other.
Yu Kun remained unfazed, but Zheng Quan'an was taken aback.
"How is this possible? My martial arts, enhanced by my Martial Soul, should not have been countered by yours."
Initially shocked, Zheng Quan'an quickly recovered with a sneer, "Nevertheless, you're confined to the Qi Refining Stage for life, unable to comprehend the true might of a Martial Soul."
With a loud cry, Zheng Quan'an launched into his martial arts once more.
This time, his technique appeared unchanged, yet it was significantly more potent.
Yu Kun paused, then realization dawned on him.
"The Dust Martial Soul has an additional function. It not only conceals but also amplifies martial arts. So, while your moves remain unchanged, the force behind them has intensified. Still, you're no match for me."
Without a moment's hesitation, Yu Kun executed the Vajra Subduing Dragon.
In an instant, a surge of overwhelming Astral Energy burst forth from Yu Kun, shattering Zheng Quan'an's defenses. Ultimately, Zheng Quan'an was sent sprawling to the ground.
As an Inner Sect disciple, it was a stunning defeat at the hands of Yu Kun's martial prowess.
Yet, Zheng Quan'an's strength evidently surpassed Chen Feng's; he was merely wounded.
"You dare attempt to kill me!" Zheng Quan'an raged. "Had I not been protected by my Inner Armor, I'd be dead! Senior Brother, I need your assistance now!"
Another Inner Sect disciple gave a nod of acknowledgment and joined forces with him to strike at Yu Kun.
Yu Kun was taken aback, not expecting the pair to launch a joint attack.
"Shameless, both of you! Luckily, I have the Leviathan-roc System to devour Spirit Stones and replenish my Astral Energy on the fly, or I'd be dead by now."
With that thought, Yu Kun wasted no time in firing up the Leviathan-roc System to consume a Spirit Stone.
But just as he was about to do so, a voice echoed through the courtyard.
"Who gave you permission to gang up on my disciple?"
The next second, Yu Kun watched in amazement as the two Inner Sect disciples froze in midair, motionless.
He couldn't help exclaiming, "Elder Hee, you're incredible!"
Elder Hee huffed with a touch of pride, "Of course, I have the skills. Now, go retrieve your belongings."
Yu Kun nodded and rummaged through the disciples' possessions, finding two Space Rings.
"I believe in fairness. You took what was rightfully mine, so I'll only claim your Space Rings. If you disagree, feel free to challenge me anytime."
With that, he took the Space Rings and his belongings and headed back into the courtyard.
Moments later, the two Inner Sect disciples crashed to the ground, their faces etched with astonishment.
"Elder Hee has such abilities!"
"Damn, has he regained his cultivation level?"
"He took my Space Ring!"
"Calm down, we're no match for Elder Hee. We need to report back to our Master!"
After a brief exchange, they scurried away.
Yu Kun entered the courtyard, in no rush to tidy up. Instead, he turned his attention to Elder Hee, who was busy with the flowers and plants.
With a sly grin, Yu Kun sidled up to Elder Hee and gave him a thumbs-up. "Elder Hee, how did you pull off that move earlier?"
Elder Hee rolled his eyes and retorted, "If I were completely devoid of talent, how could I possibly be an Elder of the Flying Cloud Sect?"
Yu Kun pondered this and realized Elder Hee had a point. He chuckled and said, "Elder Hee, you're not getting any younger, with no wife or kids, and just me as your disciple. How about you teach me that technique?"
Elder Hee offered a sly smile and inquired, "So, you're interested in learning it?"
Yu Kun emphatically nodded in agreement.
The smile on Elder Hee's face grew more mischievous as he reminded, "Just remember, I did say I'd teach you—once you've condensed your Martial Soul!"
With those words, Elder Hee set down his kettle and, hands clasped behind his back, strolled leisurely back to his room, leaving Yu Kun behind, caught between laughter and tears.