Lin Xian`er

Lin Xian'er

In the ancient land of Ye, a place steeped in history and mystique, two extraordinary figures, Ye Lingshuang and Qin Wentian, found themselves in the company of none other than the revered Human Emperor himself. Their days unfolded leisurely, basking in the warmth of camaraderie, as they patiently waited for the Human Emperor's injuries to heal completely. It was a rare moment of respite before the impending journey that lay ahead.

Their destination was the fabled Immortal Martial City, a bustling hub of activity in anticipation of the forthcoming Immortal Martial Realm's grand opening. Their decision to arrive ahead of schedule was driven by a desire to immerse themselves in the diverse tapestry of talents converging from all corners of the Royal Sacred Region. The prospect filled their hearts with eager anticipation, for it was a journey that promised not only adventure but also a chance to witness the rise of Heaven's Chosen.

Inside the opulent confines of the Royal Palace, the Human Emperor, known for his imposing presence on the battlefield, now radiated an aura of warmth and kindness, befitting a caring elder. His gaze swept over the assembly of youthful cultivators before him, a wistful smile playing on his lips.

"Seeing all of you reminds me of my own youth," he began, his voice tinged with nostalgia. "Time, my dear young friends, is a fleeting companion. In the blink of an eye, a century has passed. Cherish these youthful years, for who among us wasn't a bit wild and 'crazy' in our youth? Alas, there's no turning back the clock, or I would have been even 'crazier' and wilder than I was."

His words elicited laughter and smiles from those gathered, including Qin Wentian and his companions.

"The glory of your past, foster father, has not dimmed in the slightest," Qin Wentian quipped. "That recent battle, where you vanquished the rebellious dukes and kings, burying the experts of the Violet Thunder Sect, was, by any measure, wilder and 'crazier' than any of our youthful escapades."

"I'm old now," the Human Emperor replied with a gentle shake of his head. "Wentian, have you truly given up on the idea? Shi Xuan and his followers possess above-average strength. I can assign some of them to you as royal retainers and bodyguards."

"Foster father, I appreciate the offer," Qin Wentian responded. "But as I venture forth into the world, I have no need for protectors. However, if the need arises in the future, I won't hesitate to seek your assistance. Perhaps, when I return to Grand Xia one day, I'll require your troops to sweep through the transcendent powers. But that day is yet to come; I must first reach a level of power that befits such a request. I shall wait until I've broken through to the Celestial Phenomenon Realm before considering it."

The Human Emperor nodded, his understanding evident. Theirs was a unique bond, one forged without ulterior motives or hidden agendas. If Qin Wentian chose to accept the Ye Country, the Human Emperor was willing to bestow it upon him. Yet, knowing that Qin Wentian's ambitions extended far beyond these lands, he harbored no intention of imposing his will. He concluded with a heartfelt sentiment, "Remember, my dear Qin Wentian, if you find yourself with leisure during your travels through the Royal Sacred Region, do return with Qingcheng to visit me. This place shall always be your home."

"I naturally won't stand on ceremony with Foster Father," Qin Wentian replied with a genuine smile, his words carrying the weight of their deep bond. "Foster Father, as we depart today, I cannot predict how long it will be before I return. But rest assured, when I do, we shall share our tales over fine wine and laughter."

The Human Emperor nodded approvingly. "Indeed, Wentian. And when you and Qingcheng decide to tie the knot, remember to extend an invitation to Ye Country. I'd hate to disown you as my Foster Son if you forget."

Qin Wentian chuckled heartily at the suggestion. "Foster Father, how could we not invite you? In fact, we'd be honored to have you officiate our wedding ceremony. Your presence would make it truly grand and unforgettable."

The Human Emperor's laughter resonated through the room. "Ah, Wentian, are you merely saying that to appease an old man like me?"

Qin Wentian feigned innocence, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Of course not, Foster Father. Your wisdom and guidance have been invaluable to me. I genuinely want you to be a part of our special day."

Amidst their jovial exchange, the Human Emperor turned to Shi Xuan, his trusted aide. "Shi Xuan, gather your men and escort Wentian, Lingshuang, and their companions to the Immortal Martial City. Remain there until they exit the realm, and do not return before that."

Shi Xuan respectfully accepted the order, recognizing the significance of their mission. Qin Wentian and his group didn't object either. The journey to the Immortal Martial Realm promised to be an extraordinary one, fraught with challenges and potential conflicts. Princes, princesses, sect leaders, and descendants of powerful clans would all converge there, making it a cauldron of ambition and rivalry. Having a formidable entourage was not only prudent but essential.

Furthermore, they understood that competing in the Immortal Martial Realm would test their mettle and force them to confront harsh realities. Bloodshed was almost inevitable, especially considering the post-realm battles that ensued among survivors. The major powers made meticulous preparations to ensure the safety of their geniuses.

With their preparations complete, the Human Emperor, Ye Qingyun, stood proudly, his hands clasped behind his back. The group paid their respects before boarding a high-speed airship, a divine artifact designed for swift travel. In the blink of an eye, the vessel vanished into the horizon, hurtling toward the Immortal Martial City at astonishing speed.

As they soared under the radiant sun, Qin Wentian stole a final glance at the majestic Ye Country and the smiling Human Emperor. A deep sense of gratitude welled up within him, strengthening his resolve to grow even more formidable.

The memory of the Human Emperor's fierce battle lingered vividly in his mind—a testament to the unforgiving nature of their world, where power reigned supreme, and survival meant claiming the throne or being crushed underfoot. The Human Emperor's strength, combined with his unusual treasure, had made him a target of envy and greed. Had he not been so formidable, his fate and that of his descendants could have been dire.

Qin Wentian redirected his gaze upward, fixing his eyes on the blazing sun. Determination radiated from his very core, a steadfast commitment to become stronger, to overcome the challenges of the Immortal Martial Realm, and to forge a destiny worthy of the legends.

...

The Immortal Martial Realm occupied the northwestern reaches of the Royal Sacred Region. It opened its gates only once every decade, a tradition spanning millennia. With the passage of time, what was once a desolate landscape outside the realm had transformed into a thriving city known as the Immortal Martial City. Despite its ancient origins, the city retained an imposing aura, a testament to the countless trials it had weathered over the ages. Its very existence breathed with the essence of history, a living monument to the resilience of the human spirit.

Legends swirled around the ancient Immortal Martial City, tales spun by the imaginative and the awe-inspired. Some even claimed that this venerable city held sway over the prosperity of the entire Royal Sacred Region. While this notion might have been an exaggeration, there was a kernel of truth nestled within. After all, which illustrious figure in the Royal Sacred Region, capable of commanding the winds and rains, had not left their indelible mark upon the hallowed grounds of the Immortal Martial City? Each of these titans had ventured into the enigmatic Immortal Martial Realm at some point in their storied lives.

As the clock ticked away, the ten-year threshold came to an end, heralding the arrival of a new generation of prodigies. What was once a tranquil haven, steeped in history, was now abuzz with youthful fervor and ceaseless activity.

In the boundless sky above the city, a mesmerizing spectacle unfolded. Countless demonic beasts soared through the heavens, their forms ranging from common to exceedingly rare breeds nurtured by the major powers. The air resonated with the ominous baleful auras these creatures emanated, as they ferried cultivators across the sprawling landscape.

The path leading to the Immortal Martial Realm and the airspace above it were teeming with life. Streams of individuals and groups bustled with anticipation.

Yet, in a distant expanse of empty space, the atmosphere was electrified with the cacophony of thunderous roars and shrill cries. Dozens of figures streaked through the skies, their presence commanding the attention of all in the Immortal Martial City. Curious gazes turned skyward, revealing an array of experts astride formidable demonic mounts, exuding an aura of unparalleled might.

Amidst this entourage of demonic beasts, one creature stood out—an apex predator that sent shivers down the spines of onlookers. Its blood-red eyes gleamed with a malevolent glint, capable of striking fear into the hearts of those who dared to meet its gaze. Towering and imposing, its obsidian-black fur shimmered with an eerie brilliance, giving the impression of impending danger. Its claws, sharper than swords, seemed capable of cleaving mountains with effortless grace.

"It's a Crimson-eyed Demonic Wolf!" gasped spectators, as they beheld this hybrid creature, a fusion of wolf and demon. Its size surpassed that of tigers and leopards, radiating an aura that resonated with regal authority.

This formidable creature hauled an air-carriage behind it, concealing the identity of its passenger from prying eyes.

"These must be the representatives of the Supreme Demon Sect, hailing from the Western Domain of the Royal Sacred Region," a hushed voice intoned, stirring the hearts of onlookers. "Rumor has it that the sect's saint-child possesses unparalleled talent in the art of taming and controlling demonic beasts. He is esteemed as a genius capable of bending demons to his will and stands as a contender to lead the Supreme Demon Sect in the next generation. The saint-child had declared his intention to participate in the Immortal Martial Realm, and it appears that he has now arrived."

The Supreme Demon Sect, nestled in the untamed wilds of the Western Domain, was a reclusive and dreadfully potent sect. Their dominance in a land teeming with demons remained unchallenged, and none dared to provoke their wrath.

Ten miles above the ground, within the ethereal embrace of the clouds, an imposing line of figures materialized. Their forms were swathed in resplendent golden armor, each wielding a gleaming long spear that glistened like a cascade of molten gold. Their radiant presence was like a beacon in the sky, irresistibly drawing the eyes of all who beheld them. These awe-inspiring individuals hailed from the ancient kingdom of Radiant Gold within the Royal Sacred Region, renowned for their mastery of combat and formidable prowess.

In a different direction, a procession of nine colossal wyrms soared through the heavens, pulling an opulent dragon-shaped battle-chariot in their wake. The sheer might of their presence forced the surrounding people to hastily retreat, unwilling to meet their imposing gaze head-on. These formidable arrivals were emissaries of a dominant sea power known as the Demon Dragon Island, uncontested rulers over vast stretches of ocean territory.

These were but a glimpse of the myriad terrifying powers converging on the Immortal Martial City, with more on their way. Disciples from the nine great sects also made their way to the city, albeit arriving in separate groups. For instance, Qin Wentian and his companions had chosen to travel independently, while their fellow disciples from the Battle Sword Sect would arrive later.

Most major powers boasted a multitude of disciples, but entry into the Immortal Martial Realm was a matter of personal choice. The presence of notable figures like the Supreme Demon Sect's Saint Child and the Radiant Gold ancient country's Crown Prince had allowed spectators to witness these grand arrivals firsthand.

Meanwhile, within an elegant inn nestled in the heart of the Immortal Martial Realm, Qin Wentian and his companions occupied a table by the window. Qin Wentian, Ye Lingshuang, Mo Qingcheng, Qiao Yu, and several other enchanting maidens from the Medicine Sovereign Valley were gathered together, while their fellow disciples sat at a separate table.

As they sat, gazing out the window with intermittent glances at the skies above, a faint smile graced Qin Wentian's countenance. Three days had passed since their arrival at the Immortal Martial Realm, and they had chosen a cozy inn for their temporary lodgings. During this time, they had leisurely explored the streets, indulged in pastries within the inn, and reveled in carefree moments. However, every passing spectacle of arrival served as a stirring reminder to Qin Wentian—he was destined to compete against these formidable individuals within the Immortal Martial Realm.

"Surrounded by beauty and indulging in delicacies, Junior Brother Qin certainly knows how to savor life," a voice chimed in from the adjacent table. It was none other than Liu Yun, who couldn't conceal his envy as he watched Qin Wentian share the table with a bevy of celestial beauties. At times, he harbored a desire to join them, but the penetrating gazes of Ye Lingshuang and Qiao Yu were sufficient to keep him at bay.

"In the Immortal Martial Realm, beautiful women are as abundant as the clouds. You could pick one by simply glancing down the street. Senior Liu Yun, how could you possibly feel lonely?" Qin Wentian retorted with a gentle laugh. Not long ago, a group of exquisitely graceful females had passed by the inn, and Liu Yun's boisterous whistling had earned him a slew of murderous glares. Thankfully, this place was populated by formidable experts, dissuading any rash confrontations. Otherwise, those formidable females might have taken matters into their own hands.

"Speaking of beauty, we can't forget to mention the Celestial Maiden Sect. Rumor has it that the Royal Sacred Region's proclaimed number one beauty has graced the Immortal Martial City with her presence. Would Junior Brother Qin care to join me in a discreet glimpse or two?" Liu Yun's eyes gleamed with intrigue as he spoke of the beauties from the Celestial Maiden Sect.

"What's all this fuss about the Celestial Maiden Sect? They sound more like a bunch of enchantresses if you ask me. Isn't it common knowledge that this Lin Xian'er possesses a beauty that could captivate entire populations and the power to ensnare hearts with a mere glance? Countless men have fallen under her spell. If you're so eager to degrade yourself and become one of her playthings, you can go ahead on your own. Why drag poor Wentian into it?" Ye Lingshuang's brow furrowed, brimming with skepticism about the women of the Celestial Maiden Sect.

"Haha, I was merely thinking of 'testing' Junior Brother Qin's mettle. While Lin Xian'er from the Celestial Maiden Sect may be touted as the Royal Sacred Region's number one beauty, our Holy Maiden's charm would surely be no less enchanting," Liu Yun chuckled.

"Qingcheng's beauty is undoubtedly peerless, but do you realize that Lin Xian'er is a master of the art of seduction? I've lost count of how many gifted geniuses have fallen head over heels for her. Yet, here you are, willingly delivering yourself into her clutches. And don't think I don't know that this siren, Lin Xian'er, has announced that anyone with an Immortal Martial Medallion can enter her abode and meet her. Isn't it clear that you're using Junior Brother Qin as a pawn?" Ye Lingshuang fixed Liu Yun with a stern glare.

Intrigued by Ye Lingshuang's protective stance, Qin Wentian couldn't help but wonder: What kind of bewitching allure did this Lin Xian'er possess to provoke such wariness from a fair maiden like Ye Lingshuang?