Reverting to Simplicity, Comprehension

Reverting to Simplicity, Comprehension...

Once Di Cheng learned of Bailu Yi's closeness to Qin Wentian, it became inevitable that he would embark on a quest to glean information about his perceived rival in love. He sought out numerous members of the White Deer Institute to uncover details about Qin Wentian. It didn't take him long to ascertain that Qin Wentian was a third-ranked Inscriptionist, his cultivation standing at the third level of Yuanfu. Di Cheng swiftly grasped that Qin Wentian had no affiliations with major powers, and his acquaintance with Bailu Yi stemmed solely from their shared passion for Divine Inscriptions.

With this knowledge, Di Cheng's earlier comments gained context. His aim had been to undermine Qin Wentian's standing, disparaging Divine Inscriptionists and asserting that employing such inscriptions in combat was an exercise in futility. Yet, Qin Wentian's subsequent actions defied Di Cheng's assertions, effortlessly dealing with Di Cheng himself.

Witnessing this spectacle, Bailu Jing and his father regarded Qin Wentian anew, their comprehension of his skill in Divine Inscriptions deepening further. The path of mastering Divine Inscriptions paralleled the arduous journey of cultivation—both endeavors demanded immense dedication. Moreover, most third-ranked Inscriptionists who reached their pinnacle did so adorned with the mantle of age. To encounter a young, peak-tier, third-ranked Grandmaster proficient in combat application of Divine Inscriptions was a rarity. Qin Wentian was a true anomaly, destined to ascend to the fourth rank in due course.

Such a transition was comparable to a Yuanfu realm expert advancing to the Heavenly Dipper realm—an immense leap and no trivial feat. Transitioning from the third to fourth rank was a formidable threshold, hardly an easy crossing. However, in the present, none among them noticed the elder observing from a distance, his gaze brimming with ineffable emotion as he witnessed Qin Wentian's mastery of Divine Inscriptions.

"From this point on, refrain from bothering Little Yi any further. You are not deserving of her," Qin Wentian declared, his tone resolute. His words bore the weight of his friendship with Bailu Yi. A lady of her grace, alongside her gentle disposition and exceptional aptitude, deserved a partner far surpassing Di Cheng's stature. Qin Wentian's proclamation made it clear—Di Cheng was utterly unworthy.

Di Cheng's visage oscillated between shades of pale and sallow. Despite the humiliation he suffered in his clash with Qin Wentian, what recourse remained for him? In any case, he had forfeited any ability to persuade. The notion of imploring an elder of the Di Clan to intervene on his behalf against Qin Wentian had lost its potency. The Di Clan's purpose in visiting the White Deer Institute was to foster positive relations, not to witness Di Cheng urging an elder to oppose Qin Wentian, a guest under the Institute's protection.

Resigned, and no matter how acrid the taste of his defeat, Di Cheng had no alternative but to accept the verdict.

As Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi ventured a few steps ahead, a gust of chilling wind abruptly swept in, heralding yet another figure that materialized before them, causing Qin Wentian's expression to briefly falter. Could this day become any more confounding? First, Di Cheng obstructed him, and now, just as they moved forward, this elderly newcomer barred their way. Qin Wentian was taken aback. Why did it feel like every step he took was fraught with obstructions? The sight of this old man, although unfamiliar, hinted at a connection with the White Deer Institute, likely one of the elders.

"Grandpa Tong, is there something you need?" Bailu Yi asked, her brow furrowing in puzzlement. She recognized Grandpa Tong as a senior figure, belonging to the same generation as her own grandfather. As one of the nine esteemed elders of the White Deer Institute, his words carried substantial weight—he was not only a fourth-ranked Divine Inscriptionist but also a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign.

With a glint of anticipation, Grandpa Tong locked his gaze onto Qin Wentian. "Little Brother Qin, I have a small request to make. Could you lend me something?"

With a respectful nod, Qin Wentian inquired, "What might that be, Senior?"

"I would like to borrow the ancient scroll from the Celestial Phenomenon Ascendant," Grandpa Tong declared. His request hung in the air, and as the words settled, Qin Wentian's eyes widened, involuntarily darting towards Bailu Yi. Had she disclosed their shared experience within the secret realm to Grandpa Tong?

Bailu Yi too appeared surprised, the revelation that Grandpa Tong was privy to this information catching her off guard. The collective pact among the transcendent powers should have preserved the secrecy of what occurred within the secret realm, making this unexpected disclosure quite perplexing.

As the implications began to crystallize, Bailu Yi and Qin Wentian exchanged subtle glances. It seemed that the ancient scroll of the Gold-Element Ascendant had indeed fallen into Qin Wentian's hands. His decision to lend it to Bailu Yi had been a testament to their close relationship and mutual trust. However, Bailu Tong was a relative stranger, and it was natural to feel taken aback by his sudden request to borrow such a priceless treasure.

Sensing their unease, Bailu Tong seemed to grasp the situation. Evidently, the knowledge of the ancient scroll's possession by Qin Wentian surprised him. He swiftly explained, "I've heard that Little Brother Qin acquired the ancient scroll of the Celestial Ascendant's Divine Inscriptions within the secret realm. I hope to borrow it briefly to peruse the Ascendant's insights. I promise to return it promptly after my study." Bailu Yi's subsequent explanation prompted a flicker of intense light in Qin Wentian's eyes, suggesting a storm of thoughts brewing beneath the surface.

The audacity of Bailu Tong's actions couldn't be ignored. What status did he possess to demand the ancient scroll under the guise of borrowing? It was evident to Qin Wentian that Bailu Tong's intent was to claim the treasure for himself.

"Senior, you jest. I possess a mere low cultivation base; how could I have gained anything of value from that secret realm?" Qin Wentian chuckled, locking eyes with Bailu Tong. He knew well that Bailu Tong wouldn't openly admit to his possession of the ancient scroll, given its value and the potential trouble it could bring.

Bailu Tong returned the gaze, a smile forming on his lips. "Oh? But my sources are exceptionally reliable."

The allure of precious treasures often ignited the spark of greed within the hearts of men. Had Qin Wentian not shared a close connection with Bailu Yi and been a guest at the White Deer Institute, Bailu Tong might have resorted to forceful measures to claim the ancient scroll. In this world driven by cultivation, strength reigned supreme.

Maintaining his amiable smile, Qin Wentian retorted, "Senior must have been misinformed." He was certain that neither Bailu Yi nor Bailu Jing had revealed the possession of the ancient scroll. Even if they had, Bailu Tong wouldn't be among the first to receive such news. The most probable culprits were those chosen representatives from the transcendent powers—deliberately releasing this information into the world.

"Given that's the case, would Little Brother Qin mind if I inspect your interspatial ring?" Bailu Tong's smile remained intact, his request audacious and invasive.

The request cut to the core of a fundamental principle: one's private possessions were sacred, and the interspatial ring was among the most personal of a cultivator's belongings. Granting permission for its inspection was akin to laying one's soul bare.

"Grandpa Tong, your words are out of line," Bailu Yi interjected, her brows knitted. Despite the deference due to Bailu Tong's seniority, his approach left much to be desired.

"Little Yi, this doesn't concern you." Bailu Tong's retort, unyielding and dismissive, made his intentions clear. If not for Bailu Yi, he wouldn't have approached Qin Wentian with such civility.

Bailu Yi's response was biting. "Are you so certain this doesn't concern me?" Her arms remained linked with Qin Wentian's, a pointed message aimed at Bailu Tong's overreach.

"Little Yi, you comprehend the significance of the Ascendant's scroll. Given its proximity, your Grandpa Tong naturally covets it," Bailu Tong countered, his words scraping like sandpaper on the ears.

"Bailu Tong, do not overstep your boundaries," a new voice interjected. Stepping forward was the familiar figure of the elder with the unusually large eyes, someone Qin Wentian had encountered before.

Not a flicker of emotion appeared on Bailu Tong's face when he saw the elder's approach. As a Divine Inscriptionist, the ancient scroll of the Ascendant lay within arm's reach—an irresistible temptation.

"Great Elder," Bailu Tong acknowledged without deference.

"That's all you need to hear," the large-eyed elder admonished, his tone frosty. "Remember, it was Qin Wentian who played a pivotal role in the exchange that allowed our White Deer Institute access to the secret realm."

A disdainful snort was the only response from Bailu Tong as he swept his robes and withdrew. The matter clearly weighed heavily on his mind.

"Many thanks, Great Elder," Qin Wentian expressed with utmost respect, bowing to the elder.

"As a guest within our Institute, we ought to apologize for the recent treatment you've received. On behalf of the Institute, I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive us," the elder with large eyes spoke up. He then shifted his gaze toward Bailu Yi. "Little Yi, please do take care of Little Brother Qin."

"Mhm," Bailu Yi mumbled, a hint of rosy hue on her cheeks before she and Qin Wentian departed.

The duo ventured into the back mountains, where serenity embraced them and a gentle breeze whispered tranquility. Seated on the ground, Qin Wentian couldn't help but smile when he saw Little Rascal nuzzling against his chest.

Extending his right arm, Qin Wentian flicked his left fingers, releasing a beam of sword light that cut across his skin, resulting in droplets of vivid blood descending.

"Little Rascal, open your mouth," Qin Wentian instructed.

"Yiyi ya!" Little Rascal shook its head, an air of reluctance in its eyes as if miffed with Qin Wentian.

"I understand you followed me because you sensed something in my bloodline. My blood is useful for your evolution, and a few drops won't harm me. Don't worry," Qin Wentian affectionately patted its head.

Little Rascal's pout dissolved as it reluctantly opened its mouth.

"Such good behavior," Qin Wentian chuckled as he dripped his blood into Little Rascal's mouth. In no time, a golden glint shimmered in its eyes. Little Rascal yawned and shuffled off to the side, promptly falling asleep.

"Given the deliberate spreading of this news, aren't you worried?" Bailu Yi couldn't contain her curiosity as she observed Qin Wentian's unwavering composure. Bailu Tong's behavior had definitely added to her apprehension—how would others react to this revelation, if even an elder in their Institute was perturbed?

"Why worry about what inevitably arises when precious treasures are involved? I simply need to become stronger than any obstacle they present," Qin Wentian replied with a nonchalant smile. Bailu Yi nodded in agreement. "True, complex problems often possess simple solutions on the other side of their complexity. Strength does seem to hold the key. Regrettably, you're still young and not yet powerful enough."

"Wait, what did you just say?" Qin Wentian's eyes brightened suddenly, focused intently on Bailu Yi.

Bailu Yi's expression showed bewilderment as she met his gaze. Surely, Qin Wentian couldn't be upset, right? He didn't strike her as someone quick to anger.

"Um, strength can solve nearly anything, yet your youth and current power may be insufficient," Bailu Yi repeated.

"No, what was the sentence before that?" Qin Wentian's heart raced, anticipation igniting his eyes.

"Complex problems often possess simple solutions on the other side of their complexity," Bailu Yi recited, puzzled by his sudden curiosity.

"Yes, that's it! Seemingly intricate problems often have simple solutions just beyond them!" Qin Wentian took a deep breath, a moment of clarity illuminating his face. Tilted toward the breeze, he soaked in the essence of enlightenment, relishing the feeling of comprehension.

"Moving from simplicity to complexity implies grasping the essence of application. Yet, returning from complexity to simplicity signifies the pinnacle," Qin Wentian muttered, a cryptic statement that left Bailu Yi puzzled, unable to fathom his intent.

With a swift motion, Qin Wentian carved a lone vertical line through space. Though seemingly unremarkable, the line resonated with concealed energy that emanated with each stroke.

Bailu Yi observed the enigmatic line, her brows furrowed in confusion. The puzzle eluded her understanding. Drawing nearer to Qin Wentian, she crouched beside him, gazing intently at the etchings. She channeled a trace of Astral Energy, attempting to discern any transformations.

In an instant, a torrential column of sword light burst forth from thin air, catching Bailu Yi so off guard that she toppled backward, landing on the ground. Dumbfounded, she watched as the column radiated immense power, and her astonishment was mirrored in her gaze fixed on Qin Wentian.

"You broke through…" Bailu Yi's heart raced, her voice infused with a whirlwind of emotions.

"Yeah," Qin Wentian replied with an understated smile, as though what had just transpired was merely a casual event. However, his aura of confidence, usually evident, surged several degrees stronger, sending waves of self-assuredness through the air.