Preparing for the Inter-Sect Duel

"Hey, have you heard about the upcoming Inter-Sect Duel between the Inner Disciples of the Buddha Benevolent Sect and the Cloudburst Immortal Sect?"

As Lian Chen sat with Xiao Huan, enjoying their meal, he overheard the conversation among the disciples nearby. Intrigued by the news, Lian Chen moved closer to eavesdrop and listen attentively to their discussion.

"Yeah. Why can't we just not have this Inter-Sect Duel with the Cloudburst Immortal Sect? We not only lose the match every time, but still have to be a laughing stock for them."

"Well... It seems like history is repeating itself. We're destined to lose again this year."

"Perhaps there's a chance this time. I heard that our top-ranked Inner Disciple,

Jue Xing, who has reached the Core Formation, Late Stage, will be taking part."

"True, but let's not forget that the Cloudburst Immortal Sect also has their own formidable contender who holds the top spot."

"I wager that eventually these two will face off, but it appears that our Buddha Benevolent Sect is more likely to come out on the losing end."

"Well.. I don't think that I will be involved in this Inter-Sect duel. Let's go Xiao Huan." Lian Chen didn't think much about it and headed home.

Little did Lian Chen know that this battle would become a pivotal moment in his life. The tale of this event would unfold in due time, revealing its significance in his journey.

These past few days, Lian Chen has earnestly been practicing his martial skills.

To the point that both his "Luohan Fist" and the "Fist of Soaring Aura" are already at the "Perfection Mastery".

Whereas Lian Chen "Ethereal Palm" is at the "Advanced Mastery".

However, despite acquiring more knowledge about the Lightning Rush Footwork from the Treasury Hall, Lian Chen's proficiency in it remained at the "Elementary Mastery" level.

On the other hand, Lian Chen's Lotus Blossom Palm Strike, specifically the 3rd Step, could only be executed once due to the risk of damaging his meridians. Lian Chen was still too weak to fully utilize its power.

Nevertheless, Lian Chen had made significant progress with the Lotus Blossom Palm Strike's 1st and 2nd Steps, reaching an "Advanced Mastery" level in their execution.

"Hey, brother Duan! You're back from your missions!" Lian Chen exclaimed as he encountered Duan Wu Kun at the entrance. He couldn't help but notice how much stronger and more muscular Duan Wu Kun appeared since the last time they met upon entering the Inner Court.

"You are at the Core Formation, Late Stage?!" Exclaimed Lian Chen as not long before, Duan Wu Kun was at the Core Formation, Low Stage.

"Yeah, all the battles I've been fighting against demonic beasts while doing sect missions was worth it." Chuckled Duan Wu Kun as he replied.

"I see you have hit the Core Formation, Low Stage. Congratulations!" Duan Wu Kun said, as it is no easy feat to actually enter the Core Formation, especially for someone like Lian Chen as he has no one to help him.

"By the way, have you heard about the Inter-Sect Duel against the Cloudburst Immortal Sect? Are you going to participate in it?" Lian Chen asked with curiosity.

Duan Wu Kun chuckled and replied, "Me? Nah~ I think we'll be there as spectators only. The top 5 inner disciples on the ranking board will be the ones participating. Although, I must admit, part of me really wants to be in the fight against the Cloudburst Immortal Sect." His face revealed his longing to be a part of the duel, despite his casual response.

"That's so like you. Alright, I am going to cultivate, farewell brother Duan." Lian Chen chuckled and bid farewell.

Xiao Huan had already reached the Advanced Beast, Low Stage, surpassing Lian Chen in strength.

Currently, Lian Chen remained at the Foundational Establishment, High Stage, despite possessing the aura of a Core Formation, Low Stage.

Lian Chen took out the storage ring and carefully pricked his finger, allowing a drop of his blood to fall onto the surface. As the drop made contact with the ring, a radiant glow emanated from it, illuminating the surroundings.

As Lian Chen injected his Qi inside the storage ring, Lian Chen realized that inside were just more spiritual stones, and nothing more.

Lian Chen took out the pouches that contain the 300,000 spiritual stones, and put all of it in the storage ring.

"Alright, let's try to form the 2nd core in my dantian!" Lian Chen said with resolute determination.