C9 Apprenticeship

As Ye Xiao was in the midst of his attempt to break through the seventh layer, a nearly invisible figure darted across the treetops. In a moment, the figure circled back and hovered above Ye Xiao.

"Hmm? Who's this youngster daring to attempt a breakthrough here? Such commotion... he must be on the verge of becoming a Yuan Master. Does this naive kid not fear interruption?"

Speaking to himself, the figure descended gracefully to perch atop a towering tree, his eyes intently observing Ye Xiao, who was in the process of refining his vitality. A single look was enough to leave him agape in astonishment. "Holy..."

With his level of cultivation, he instantly recognized Ye Chen's true level: Sixth Level Provener.

But when had a Sixth Level Provener's attempt to ascend to the seventh layer ever caused such a stir? Achieving such an effect indicated an exceptionally potent cultivation technique. Although his own technique hadn't reached the Deity Tier, it was still a respectable Heaven Tier Mid Rank.

Yet, the technique this young man practiced seemed to surpass his own. Could it be a higher Heaven Tier, or even the mythical Deity Tier?

An uncontrollable wave of greed surged within him. A high-level technique was a rare treasure for any cultivator, and of immense value to a sect. Having plateaued in his current realm for a century, a superior cultivation technique might just be the key to his breakthrough.

The man's face twisted in conflict as he pondered, his hand hesitating in midair. Eventually, he let out a few bitter chuckles and shook his head in self-mockery. Centuries of arduous cultivation, and still, greed lingered. Besides, even if the technique was advanced, it wasn't guaranteed to suit him. The more sophisticated the cultivation technique, the more stringent the requirements.

With a flick of his wrist, he released a pulse of Essence, creating an invisible barrier that enveloped the area in silence.

He then descended and positioned himself a few meters in front of Ye Xiao, watching intently as the young man pressed on with his breakthrough.

The observer grew increasingly astonished. Typically, after a failed attempt at a breakthrough, few would dare to try again immediately. The physical pain and exhaustion were all too real, not to mention the potential impact on one's mental state.

Ye Xiao had launched an astonishing seven or eight consecutive assaults. Each failure seemed to leave him unfazed, though the pain racking his body was evident. Yet, Ye Xiao gritted his teeth and soldiered on.

Such resilience, such unwavering determination.

Eventually, Ye Xiao ceased his relentless efforts, prompting the observer to breathe a sigh of relief. In his centuries of cultivation, he had never witnessed anyone challenge the barrier with such ferocity, especially not a seemingly insignificant youth who had only just reached the level of a Yuan practitioner.

Despite the setback, the observer was thoroughly impressed with Ye Xiao. A formidable cultivation technique coupled with an unyielding spirit promised a future of remarkable achievements, provided he avoided an untimely demise.

The Qian Yuan Sword within Ye Xiao had been aware of the shadowy presence all along. With Ye Xiao engrossed in his breakthrough, the sword dared not cause the slightest distraction. It was relieved to see the newcomer refrain from interrupting. Sensing the visitor's immense Essence fluctuations, the Qian Yuan Sword broke into a cold sweat, knowing that with the stranger's level of cultivation, a mere breath could obliterate Ye Xiao.

Once Ye Xiao halted, the Qian Yuan Sword urgently warned, "Kid, someone's about five meters in front of you."

Startled, Ye Xiao was hit with a rush of alarm. He had been practicing in this forest for months without disturbance, his vigilance had waned, allowing him to boldly attempt his breakthrough here. An interruption at such a critical moment could have dire consequences, ranging from a failed breakthrough to a lethal backlash of Essence.

Regaining his composure, Ye Xiao, weary and worn, struggled to his feet.

He peered toward the spot indicated by the Qian Yuan Sword, but could only discern an indistinct silhouette. Without the sword's warning, he might have dismissed the figure as anything but human.

Ye Xiao bowed respectfully and said, "I pay my respects to you, Senior."

"Oh?" The figure uttered with a hint of surprise, "You've noticed me? You truly have an extraordinary fate. Tell me, what's your name, where do you hail from, and why choose this place for your breakthrough?"

"I am Ye Xiao, hailing from Night City just ten miles from here. I am a member of the Ye Family," Ye Xiao replied.

"Night City, the Ye Family?" The man murmured, then shook his head dismissively. With his level of cultivation, the Ye Family was insignificant, and even the entire Night City could be wiped out with a mere gesture. How could he have ever heard of such an insignificant clan?

"Do you have a mentor?" he inquired, turning his gaze to Ye Xiao.

Ye Xiao was taken aback but responded with deference, "I have no master."

Lacking a mentor yet possessing an advanced cultivation technique suggested it wasn't a family legacy, especially not in a place as small as Night City. That left only one explanation: a serendipitous encounter!

The thought stirred excitement within him. Such encounters weren't rare on the vast Chu Yuan Continent, with its millennia of history and countless opportunities. But for a youth to acquire a technique that even he coveted, it could only be attributed to one thing: destiny!

"The continent has been at peace for over eight hundred years, and now a time of chaos approaches. It's a pity that among the tens of thousands of my disciples, none possess great destiny. Those with such destiny are the titans of tumultuous times. If fate brings us together, I must aid them, for they could tip the scales in our favor amidst the coming turmoil." The man's thoughts flowed freely.

This young man before him, could he be one with such a grand destiny?

"Young man, since you lack a master, would you consider accepting me as your teacher?" he asked outright.

Ye Xiao was astounded. How could someone he'd just met offer to take him as a disciple? He knew nothing about this man.

"Qian Yuan Sword, what's the measure of this man's strength?" Ye Xiao silently sought guidance.

"The man's prowess is extraordinary, far beyond your current scope, and his exact level eludes me. The decision to accept him as your master is yours to make. However, I would advise you to contemplate it. Despite having the Qian Yuan Technique and no shortage of methods, the guidance of such a formidable master could be immensely beneficial," the sword's voice resonated within him.

Ye Xiao weighed his options quietly.

With a respectful tone, he ventured, "Esteemed Senior, may I inquire about your origins and the extent of your cultivation?"

The man chuckled to himself, suddenly realizing that the young man before him had no idea who he was. He had been about to take him on as a disciple without even showing his face, which was, admittedly, somewhat embarrassing.

With a discreet cough, the barely discernible outline that Ye Xiao had been staring at fragmented, revealing a distinct figure. Clad in a black robe, the man's eyes sparkled with intensity. His long hair seemed to move of its own accord, billowing behind him, and his demeanor was commanding, exuding authority without a hint of anger. Despite his slightly aged appearance, his complexion was healthy and his posture, erect.

"I am Wu Kun, a high-ranking Yuan Emperor," the man declared with a trace of pride, clearly pleased with his level of cultivation.

Wu Kun narrowed his eyes and gently stroked his short beard, expecting the young man before him to be in awe of his status and ready to pay his respects. However, after a brief pause, there was no response. Observing Ye Xiao more closely, Wu Kun noticed his lips slightly parted, his eyes filled with utter bewilderment and confusion.

Wu Kun was taken aback, followed by a wave of embarrassment. The young man in front of him was merely a disciple from a small town, likely never having set foot beyond the County City. How could he possibly comprehend the significance of the title 'Yuan Emperor'?