31- A bitter encounter

Upon departing from the Duan clan, Zhong Peng realized that he must prepare himself for the challenges that lay ahead.

As an adversary of Duan Jingtao, a high true martial cultivator, Zhong Peng knew that he could not afford to draw undue attention to himself.

Despite being a level higher than his opponent, Zhong Peng had to suppress his true cultivation level and present himself as a low true martial cultivator.

Now, he contemplated his next moves and sought ways to strengthen himself before the next confrontation.

As Zhong Peng's mind raced with thoughts, a brilliant idea suddenly dawned on him. He suddenly said to the old man, " You mentioned earlier that I could obtain a martial technique with enough points. Can I acquire a first martial technique from you "

" Indeed, young one, if you have sufficient points, you may acquire a martial technique from me " the old man replied. " However, I regret to inform you that I do not possess a martial technique that aligns with your current cultivation level "

" What do you mean by that, " Zhong Peng asked, his face reflecting his disappointment.

" As you are aware, unlike cultivation technique martial techniques requires specific conditions to cultivate.

You will only be able to cultivate the martial techniques I possess when you reach the Dan 8 true God cultivation level " the old man stated.

Zhong Peng was taken aback upon hearing this and felt a tinge of disappointment. As a true martial cultivator, he still had a long way to go before reaching the Dan 8 cultivation level.

Zhong Peng asked, " How can I go to the upcoming cloud gathering without any martial techniques "

The old man said, " Even if you chance upon a martial technique at present, it is improbable that you would be able to cultivate it before tomorrow "

After pondering over the old man's words, Zhong Peng realized the veracity of his statement. Nonetheless, his mind was still indecisive and he felt uneasy. He yearned for something that would confer upon him a tremendous advantage during the contest.

As Zhong Peng was still lost in thought, he was suddenly jolted by a voice that he knew all too well, the voice of someone he had hoped not to encounter again. "Isn't this Brother Zhong Peng" the voice rang out, "What thoughts are occupying your mind that you did not even hear me approaching " The owner of the voice was none other than Zhou Shun, who still wore an eerie smile on his face.

"Brother Zhong Shun, what brings you here? I thought you had no intention of attending the Cloud Gathering Contest " Zhong Peng said, forcing a smile on his face. He always felt uneasy whenever he was in Zhou Shun's presence.

Zhou Shun ignored Zhong Peng's query and instead gazed upon him with a stern expression. Instantly, a sense of unease welled up within Zhong Peng's heart. It was as if Zhou Shun could see through every secret within him. Zhong Peng always felt a sense of helplessness whenever he was in Zhou Shun's presence.

After gazing at Zhong Peng for some time, Zhou Shun finally spoke " The speed of your cultivation is truly astonishing. I am curious about the fortunate encounter that allowed you to elevate your cultivation to such a level.

I wonder what the future holds for you" Zhou Shun's voice was not loud, nor was it quiet. It seemed as though he was speaking to himself rather than to Zhong Peng.

When Zhong Peng heard what Zhou Shun said, he was utterly shocked. He couldn't believe that Zhou Shun was able to see through him, and the unease in his heart rose to an unprecedented height.

Zhou Shun suddenly spoke as if he was reading Zhong Peng'mindds. " There are some special individuals among us cultivators, each possessing unique talents. You can say that I am one of them, and so are you. Don't see me as your enemy, for you already have more than enough to deal with." Zhou Shun said as he walked away, leaving Zhong Peng to ponder on his words.

As Zhong Peng's mind was running wild with thoughts, Zhou Shun suddenly stopped and said, " One more thing, be careful of that Xiao Se. He can be very ambitious sometimes. "He said with a smile as he left, leaving Zhong Peng with a sense of foreboding.

Zhong Peng screamed inwardly, " Why has everyone been warning me to be careful of certain individuals lately? " The constant reminders had started to weigh heavily on his mind, and he couldn't shake off the feeling that danger was lurking around every corner.

Zhong Peng couldn't shake off the feeling that danger was lurking around him ever since he left the Duan clan. It was as if a dark cloud was following him wherever he went, and he couldn't escape its ominous presence.

As Zhong Peng strode towards the inn where he had taken lodging, a sudden intrusion shattered the quietude of his thoughts. It was none other than Longwei's voice, resounding within the confines of his mind. " To seek another method of contending with such trifling foes, do you hold me in contempt? " The words were imbued with an unmistakable fury, causing Zhong Peng's mind to tremble in response.