Chapter 126: Chaotic Stars (Two-in-One)

What a fine piece of Reflecting Shadow Jade Disc—it truly… evokes memories!

Gazing at the scene evolving on the jade disc before him, Zhang Jian's eyes lit up, as if he had finally found some familiar shadows, actually giving rise to a feeling as if separated by an age.

He was full of enthusiasm.

He stepped forward and gently stroked it; this jade disc was refined from a strange spiritual material, its radiance like jade, smooth to the touch.

'Senior Brother, this is the place!'

Bai Li Ying had long grown accustomed to the omens on the jade disc; she stepped forward and said.

'After my father repeatedly confirmed, this jade disc retains an extremely profound sword technique, but the sword technique within is mixed and somewhat chaotic, as if deliberately scrambled, not good for comprehension!'

Bai Li Ying's beautiful eyes showed some helplessness.

Having a treasure mountain but being unable to take anything out feels awful.

Zhang Jian nodded, yet felt quite curious inside.

He was actually eager to give it a try.

Possessing the Seven Apertures Exquisite Heart, his perceptiveness became his strength.

'Let me give it a try!'

He then found a place to sit cross-legged, his eyes fixed straight on a fierce light gradually appearing on the jade disc; that strange light flowed on the disc, evolving into magnificent scenes such as primordial mountains and seas, the Illuminating World Star River, blue clouds covering the sky, and so on.

As his divine sense delved deeper, he gradually saw a figure in green robes; threads of sword light split from her hand, the long sword broke through the void, manifesting myriad strange techniques in the empty space.

This was like a flood striking Zhang Jian's divine sense; the sword aura was chilling, causing his divine sense to feel sharp pain.

This was only the beginning; moments later, the figures on the jade disc grew more numerous, that chilling sword aura at times transforming into blue clouds, at times into stars, like a demonic frenzy.

'Too chaotic!'

Zhang Jian glanced several more times, and a feeling of annoyance arose in his mind.

Even with the Seven Apertures Exquisite Heart's undistracted support, other cultivators would likely have already risen, swinging their swords wildly.

The Dragon Girl had already hidden far away; seeing Zhang Jian still sitting calmly before the jade disc, merely furrowing her brow slightly, her expression suddenly trembled, and she couldn't help but feel admiration in her heart.

She had personally comprehended the sword technique within that jade disc.

But she could only persist for half an incense stick's time; after that, she could not restrain the nameless fire in her heart and had to stop.

'I never expected this senior brother's mental cultivation to have reached such a level; no wonder his progress is so swift!'

A ripple faintly stirred in the Dragon Girl's heart.

The Dragon Lord naturally favored quick‑witted scholars, but the Dragon Girl was different; she admired such enterprising cultivators all the more.

But moments later, Zhang Jian opened his eyes, his spiritual energy showing slight disorder.

Seeing this, the Dragon Girl was about to advise, but saw Zhang Jian take a slight deep breath and again pour his divine sense into it.

At that moment she saw Zhang Jian's body slowly encircled by a layer of intense pure‑white flames.

Virtuous Righteous Qi turned into flame!

The Dragon Girl stared, shocked, at this scene, yet her feet retreated another ten‑odd zhang.

That Virtuous Righteous Qi exploded, surging heat and fire sweeping outward; the Dragon Girl felt her condensed mana's operation faintly stagnate, and even her divine sense was hindered by that vast luminous power, as if she could not help but reveal her true form.

This left her trembling.

'Is this the power of Virtuous Righteous Qi?'

The Dragon Girl's expression was unusually solemn; she had also never encountered such a strange power before.

If it were a first encounter, a slight carelessness would surely suffer a great loss.

No wonder the White Water Dragon Lord placed high hopes on Zhang Jian.

But this time, as Zhang Jian's Virtuous Righteous Qi surrounded him, faint starlight gradually appeared within it.

In the Dragon Girl's sight, that was indeed the trail of starlight.

'Success?'

But this change also left the Dragon Girl feeling astonished.

Having comprehended it for the second time, he had already found a clue.

At this moment, the Dragon Girl's feelings were too complex to describe.

Finally, only one thought remained in her heart: 'This senior brother is truly a genius; no wonder he was accepted into the Paulownia Mountain Dao Lineage.'

At this time, Zhang Jian had indeed gradually entered a favorable state.

He discovered the cultivation secret of the sword technique within the jade disc; it was not merely a single sword set, but likely also contained many scattered sword teachings that interfered with the practitioner's direction.

If the practitioner could eliminate the influence of those powerful chaotic sword moves, he could then draw out the silk, uncovering the cultivation law of this sword set.

The key therein was the Illuminating World Star River.

At this moment, Zhang Jian's Dragon Roar Sword sensed the starlight sword qi rising around him, and involuntarily transformed into light and flew forth.

This spirit sword had long merged with his divine sense, as if an extension of his arm; with his divine sense fused, it instantly traced wondrous patterns in the void, merging into the spiritual energy field, and points of starlight flickered around him.

Above the firmament, if starlight were drawn in, it would merge into the sword light.

A single sword strike split forth, bearing the unique brilliance and chill of scattered starlight.

The sword light swept past, yet the pile of rubble nearby was pierced through by the sword aura's extreme sharpness.

The Dragon Girl gazed at the shattered rubble heap, her eyes slightly widened in astonishment.

'The essence of this sword technique lies in piercing and cutting? Though its speed is not fast, but…'

Gazing at the ever‑increasing brilliant starlight in the void, a word flashed through the Dragon Girl's mind.

'Intricate!'

'Intricate' means hard to see through and impossible to guard against.

The Dragon Girl's eyes held a hint of contemplation; although she knew little about sword control techniques, she also knew that such techniques usually have several directions, one being speed, and the faster the sword control, the obviously more dangerous it is.

Many sword‑cultivating practitioners choose sword techniques that favor speed.

Next is complexity.

A complex sword technique makes it hard to see the trajectory, making defense impossible.

Next is sharpness.

In sword control technique, by combining magical power and special sword formulas, the sharp power of the magic sword can be fully unleashed.

Sharpness is usually combined with speed.

This sword technique before us is likely a combination of complexity and sharpness.

Sharpness leans toward piercing.

This is even more dangerous.

At this moment, as Zhang Jian performs this sword control technique, the Dragon Roar Sword turns into starlight wandering in the void, and Zhang Jian finally feels he can wield the sword freely, rather than merely relying on the simple flying sword technique to spin the Dragon Roar Sword around him a few times.

At the same time, the moment he performs this sword technique, the sword technique seems to resonate with the jade disc in the void.

All various omens on the jade disc completely disappear, leaving only a pure shining star river; a human figure dances in the star river, countless sword shadows emanate, as if countless stars fly out and merge with Zhang Jian.

Seeing this, the Dragon Maiden naturally knows that Zhang Jian has fully mastered this sword technique.

Her heart was greatly shaken!

How long has it been!

"Chaotic Star!"

Sword lights like stars streaked across the void above his head; Zhang Jian then slowly sheathed the Dragon Roar Sword, standing solemnly in place, his mind now possessing a complete sword control technique.

In his view, this sword control technique is indeed extremely complex.

This sword technique named Chaotic Star Sword Technique has three forms.

Scattered Form, Four Symbols, Circulating Heaven!

Even the most basic variations of Scattered Form consist of one hundred and eight complex sword forms, corresponding to the one hundred and eight main stars; after each is practiced individually, they must further be combined in pairs or triples, or even hundreds of sword techniques combined together.

Practicing sword technique not only consumes enormous amounts of magical power, but also especially consumes the soul's spiritual sense.

If not for those with exceptionally outstanding talent, how could they have the energy to comprehend this sword technique?

This is only Scattered Form; upon reaching the Four Symbols stage, sword light can form arrays.

That requires more calculations, performing complex computations in a multi-dimensional way, so as to command such complex and vast sword arrays.

But precisely because cultivation is so complicated, there are various obstructions on the jade disc.

Zhang Jian now also understands the painstaking effort of the exalted person who left behind this sword technique inheritance.

Without sufficient talent, patiently pondering the profundities of sword technique is better left unpracticed.

Beside her, Bai Li Ying saw Zhang Jian's surrounding Vastly Righteous Fire slowly recede, and she stepped forward with a smile: "Congratulations, senior brother, on obtaining a superior sword technique!"

Her smile bloomed like a flower, and she was also happy for Zhang Jian!

Zhang Jian heard the words, lightly nodded, and there was also a smile in his eyes.

Superior sword techniques are rare; although backed by a vast Daoist sect, being able to obtain a superior sword technique without cost is also extremely joyful.

Zhang Jian pondered slightly and then said: "Princess, does the Dragon Palace have a place abundant in spiritual energy?"

He needs a place to properly practice several techniques in preparation for the duel.

Bai Li Ying heard and said: "Yes, senior brother, please follow me!"

Within the White Water Dragon Palace, there are several places abundant in spiritual energy; the primary choice is the edge of the Water Eye, where the water-system spiritual energy is overflowingly abundant.

The two passed through several palaces and gates along the way, reaching the destination in half an incense stick's time!

Here, countless dense divine power runes cover the surroundings, and additionally there is a special magic array set up, seemingly used to gather spiritual energy.

Zhang Jian took a glance and was quite satisfied.

Such a place abundant in spiritual energy is excellent for both practicing magic and adjusting one's condition.

Half a month later

Zhang Jian emerged from seclusion near the Water Eye, and in the Water Gate, Bai Li Ying had already come to greet him.

At this time she once again changed into that set of slightly solemn dark black cold-lily interwoven gauze robes, the pure and clean appearance revealing a solemn hue.

In the distance, Zhang Jian's expression was indifferent; upon seeing Bai Li Ying, a faint smile instead appeared on his face.

"Princess, let's set out!"

After half a month of preparation, Zhang Jian felt he had raised his condition to its peak; as for his opponent, he currently has no intelligence, and the other side likely does not know of his existence.

Whether the deer lives or dies depends on whose hand it falls into; ultimately, only each side's own abilities matter.

At this time Bai Li Ying also told Zhang Jian the steps of the upcoming duel.

In principle, each side sends out three persons; whoever first wins two bouts wins the duel, with no possibility of a Tian Ji horse race scenario, only strong versus strong clashes.

The location of the duel is the Three Ancestors Temple outside Phoenix Yang Commandery.

That is the temple where the people of Phoenix Yang Commandery worship the founding ancestor of the Dongxuan Divine State, solemn and sacred.

When Zhang Jian entered the White Water Dragon Palace, the White Water Dragon Lord was already waiting here; the White Water Dragon Lord's expression held a smile, and he was full of confidence in Zhang Jian.

"Nephew, how do you feel?"

On his solemn face there was still a hint of inquisitiveness.

"Give it my all!"

Zhang Jian's expression was indifferent; this time he had not only mastered the Nine Heavens Ride Wind Method and the Azure Mist Wind Travel Technique, but also initially entered the Chaotic Star Sword Technique, and with the two divine objects sent from Phoenix Nest Mountain and the Dragon Lord, he naturally had great confidence.

Even a foundation-establishment cultivator at the Golden Liquid Stage who tests fate could be defeated by him.

After interacting with Zhang Jian for so long, the White Water Dragon Lord had also gradually come to understand Zhang Jian's nature and temperament; hearing this, he was delighted and laughed heartily.

"Then let's go to the Three Ancestors Temple to meet that old demon hag!"

He waved his hand, a divine light swept up Zhang Jian and Bai Li Ying, turning them into a divine light that flew toward the Three Ancestors Temple outside Phoenix Yang Commandery.

Magical power circulated, stepping on the void, the party moved extremely fast, reaching the destination in less than half an incense stick's time!

That is a dragon-shaped mountain peak!

On the mountain ranges, towering and solemn palaces and temples already came into view.

Red walls, green tiles; the central Three Ancestors Mausoleum is towering and tall, surrounded by many tall ancient cypresses!

Ancient cypresses form a forest, evergreen throughout the seasons.

Divine light fell upon the plaza before the Three Ancestors Mausoleum.

At this moment, several Daoists had already arrived on the plaza; seeing the divine light descending in midair, the two leading Daoists exchanged a glance, smiles on their faces.

"Lord Bai Shui Long is quite punctual!"

That is Yuhe Daoist of the Cavern Spirit Temple, and the other is Xue Daoist of the Imperial Envoy Delegation.

He comes from the Imperial Observatory, bearing the background of the Great Qian Dynasty court; likewise, his status is special.

The two serve as the notaries for this contest.

This was agreed upon beforehand; the three parties had made a pact: if anyone violates the outcome of the wager, the other two will jointly punish them.

But as Bai Shui Longjun's party descended, Yuhe Daoist and Xue Daoist instantly turned their gazes to Zhang Jian, their eyes showing astonishment.

Zhang Jian and his companions are naturally acquainted.

Not long ago, we still saw each other in the Cavern Spirit Temple.

But now Zhang Jian stands behind Bai Shui Longjun, causing the two Daoists' expressions to become astonished.

Bai Shui Longjun saw the two Daoists' gazes, immediately guessed their thoughts, and laughed heartily.

"Senior Daoist brothers, this is my son-in-law, and also the representative of my White Water Dragon Palace participating in this wager!"

Upon hearing this, Yuhe Daoist and Xue Daoist exchanged a glance, and Yuhe Daoist couldn't help but speak.

"I never expected that Brother Zhang would have formed a vermilion-dust bond with the Fourth Princess; it's truly astonishing!"

Yuhe Daoist also sensed something odd; he knows the relationship between the Zhang and Qi families, having heard that the Zhang family had already arranged an engagement with the second branch of the Qi family—how could it now be that he has become Bai Shui Longjun's son-in-law?

But he remained composed and did not question.

"Hmph, Bai Nu, you just randomly brought an outsider to participate in the wager, claiming he's your son-in-law—on what grounds should I, the old lady, believe you?"

At this moment, a gloomy, cold voice emerged from the clouds, arriving instantly before them.

Demonic aura intense; in an instant, a group of ten or so emerged from the black wind, led by a plump, beautiful woman in white robes, looking about thirty, with a lovely, graceful countenance.

She coiled her hair into a serpentine bun, her divine power magnificent; at this moment she seemed as if the stars gathered around the moon, with ten or so figures standing beside her, led by three young men and women of extraordinary bearing and distinct temperament.

Zhang Jian's gaze instantly fell upon those two women and one man, and they too looked over at just that moment.

Hearing the white-clad beautiful lady's questioning, Bai Nu remained expressionless.

"How come, I, Bai Nu, marrying off my daughter still need to consult with you, this old demoness?"

Upon hearing this, the white-clad beautiful lady snorted laughter.

"Bai Nu, stop your honeyed words—who doesn't know that your fourth daughter, Princess Yunying, is still unmarried? Do you think we're all fools?"

Her eyes were both venomous; simultaneously, a gaze locked directly onto Zhang Jian, the depths filled with intense divine pressure.

"Indeed, another Yin God Venerable!"

Zhang Jian remained composed, yet felt somewhat helpless inside.

In his dealings as a minor figure, it seems there are no commoners, only big shots.

This puts tremendous pressure on one!

Bai Nu's expression was disdainful, yet at this moment he was locked in a confrontation with the beautiful lady.

"We cultivators are hardly mortals; that exchange of bodily fluids is merely the lowest form of dual cultivation—my daughter seeks the path of longevity, so she cannot lightly spoil her true yin!"

"You speak nicely, but we demons have never had such a rule; moreover, you, old flood dragon, yourself also have four daughters—could they be someone else's offspring?"

The white-clad beautiful lady's words were sharp, instantly causing Bai Nu's face to show anger.

Yuhe Daoist and Xue Daoist, seeing this, hurried to separate the two sides; meanwhile, Xue Daoist furrowed his brows, glanced at Bai Nu and said.

"Lord Dragon, what the Poison Dragon River God said is not without basis; without solid evidence, we too would find it hard to readily believe!"

Yuhe Daoist was inclined to do Zhang Jian a favor, and thus said.

"If Lord Dragon could produce evidence, that would be best!"

Upon hearing this, Bai Nu slightly furrowed his brows—how could he easily produce evidence for such a matter?

Beside him, Bai Li Ying's eyes shifted, and she suddenly stepped forward, raising her hands to the heavens.

"Above the gods, I, Bai Li Ying of the Bai clan, Water Well Dragon King of Fengyang Commandery, swear by the State and Grain Gods' Law: I wish to marry Zhang Jian of the Fengxi Zhang clan; if I violate this, may thunder strike my head and I meet a miserable end!"

As the words fell, a change in the gloomy atmosphere appeared above the Three Ancestors Mausoleum, evidently having responded to the oath.

Zhang Jian gazed at this scene, his expression also becoming strange.

He didn't know whether this was part of a makeshift plan!

But this content is somewhat over the top!

However, he certainly won't be the one to suffer loss; he saw Bai Nu's complexion darken at a visible speed not far away.