Chapter 57: Trying Another Disciple (Seeking Follow-up Reads! Seeking Collections!)

As mentioned before, the Golden Light Spell is the hallmark of Dragon and Tiger Mountain in the world of the extraordinary, while the Five Thunder Correct Method is the fundamental power that allows Dragon and Tiger Mountain to command respect across the realm and establish itself as the leader of the mysterious sects.

In many legendary texts, thunder magic is hailed as the crown of all arts, the decree of heaven, possessing the greatest authority. All things across the three realms and nine continents fall under the dominion of thunder.

The Five Thunder Correct Method of the Celestial Master's Mansion is the most formidable thunder technique in the world; there is none stronger. Only after inheriting the position of Celestial Master can disciples of Dragon and Tiger Mountain fully master this unparalleled thunder art.

Undoubtedly, Zhang Zhiwei, as a disciple who assumed the family name, had the potential to inherit the Celestial Master’s title and was naturally granted the right to learn part of the thunder magic. He had long since brought the Yang Five Thunder to a preliminary level of proficiency. At this moment, suddenly unleashing it truly gave the impression of a thunder god descending to the mortal world.

Elsewhere, when Zhang Jingqing, watching from afar, saw the flash of lightning, a knot formed in his heart, fearing that the troublemaker might go too far and harm Wu Xian.

But the next moment, from the still lingering thunderlight, he sensed that the energy of both opponents remained intact, which eased his worries somewhat.

Zuo Ruotong, however, looked at Zhang Jingqing with interest and teased, “Congratulations, Celestial Master, your wish has been fulfilled. As for me, I’m afraid I’ll be even more troubled now.”

“Brother Zuo, you…” Zhang Jingqing could only laugh and cry, about to say something, when the lightning in the distance faded.

Looking up, Wu Xian and Zhang Zhiwei faced each other, a dazzling ball of thunderlight dancing between their palms, as if ready to explode at any moment.

But it simply would not burst!

Veins bulging on Zhang Zhiwei’s forehead, he tried to further urge the power of the palm thunder, but the immense energy continuously fed from the opposite side forcibly suppressed him, as if he were a bird trapped in a cage, unable to break free.

Several attempts all ended in failure.

After a long while, Zhang Zhiwei finally sighed and voluntarily dispelled his thunder magic and protective golden light, his expression tinged with melancholy as he said, “I’ve lost.”

After all, this was just a sparring match, not a fight to the death. Zhang Zhiwei had already used all his strength but still could not probe Wu Xian’s depths, indicating the significant gap between them—just like the difference between himself and Lu Jin.

Knowing this, yet forcing the challenge anyway, was not pride but sheer recklessness. If he provoked real wrath, not only would he suffer, but Dragon and Tiger Mountain would be disgraced because of him.

Though Zhang Zhiwei’s social skills were lacking, he understood this clearly.

“Thank you for the match, Senior Brother Zhang.”

Upon hearing Zhang Zhiwei’s concession, Wu Xian readily withdrew from his counter-life state, cupping his hands in salute with the demeanor of a modest gentleman.

---

In truth, he was already bursting with joy inside. Were it not for his professional training, he might have broken into laughter like a fool by now.

See that? Zhang Zhiwei—the “one under the sovereign”—has just been defeated by me. Isn’t this something to boast about for a lifetime?

Ha ha ha ha ha —

“Tell me, Wu Junior Brother, how exactly do you cultivate? I pride myself on decent talent; after ten years of painstaking practice with the Golden Light Spell, I’ve only raised my life merit to this level. Yet you, who looks two years younger than me, can crush me in life merit. Could it be you started training in the womb?”

Having admitted defeat, Zhang Zhiwei showed no sign of discouragement or blow to his ego. Instead, he casually asked Wu Xian about his cultivation secrets, giving off a carefree vibe.

But that made sense. After all, as the undisputed pinnacle of the one-under-the-sovereign world, Wu Xian’s heart was as solid as a rock. How could he lose confidence over a mere defeat?

As for the secret Wu Xian was asked about... he was momentarily speechless. Couldn’t very well say he just latched onto a lucky break.

With a mental sigh, Wu Xian smiled and babbled nonsense: “It’s simple—I just spend on cultivation the time others use to rest. As the saying goes, ‘Endure the bitterest of hardships to rise above others.’ This principle applies to cultivation as well.”

“Is... that so?”

Zhang Zhiwei’s face showed suspicion. Although the explanation sounded reasonable, he had a nagging feeling the other was fibbing, though he couldn’t say why.

Meanwhile, the sect leaders and clan heads nearby heard Wu Xian’s words and exchanged thoughtful glances, then covertly looked at their own disappointing offspring, their expressions growing profound.

Wu Xian had no idea that because of his offhand remark, over the next several years, the young disciples present would endure untold hardships and misery—words could scarcely describe their plight.

“Hmph!”

Suddenly, a cold snort sounded nearby as Zuo Ruotong and Celestial Master Zhang Jingqing approached, each looking at their respective disciples.

One expression showed a mixture of relief and helplessness; the other, disdain tinged with barely perceptible satisfaction.

The contrast in treatment was so stark that Zhang Zhiwei felt a bit depressed but his deep respect and fear for his master prevented him from speaking out. Instead, he scratched his head awkwardly and said, “Master, I’ve brought shame upon you…”

“Hmph! Shame? Do you think I’m someone who cares about face?”

Zhang Jingqing looked at Zhang Zhiwei’s disheveled state, the worry in his eyes finally easing somewhat, but he still scolded coldly:

“I’ve told you many times, ‘There are people beyond people, and heavens beyond heavens.’ Every time I said this, you nodded, but how often did you truly take it to heart?”

“You think you’re talented and strong, that with enough time you can go anywhere in this vast world...

But now you see, you’re not the only prodigy out there. Many surpass you. If you keep this mindset, disaster will befall you sooner or later.”

Having said this, Zhang Jingqing ignored Zhang Zhiwei’s thoughtful gaze and turned to Wu Xian, his rugged face softening instantly.

“Wu, my nephew, your talent and cultivation at such a young age are rare to see in my entire life. Your future is truly boundless. Brother Zuo and the San Yi Sect have heirs indeed.”

“Master, please don’t flatter him,” Zuo Ruotong shook his head with a wry smile, then looked at Wu Xian with a complex expression.

“I’m glad you know how to hide your strength. That you suddenly revealed it today must have a reason. But as your master, I must remind you of one thing. I hope you remember it well.”

“Master, please speak!”

Upon hearing this, Wu Xian’s expression immediately turned serious, and he straightened up attentively.

This obedient demeanor made Zhang Jingqing envy him.

Look at that disciple—talented, strong, sensible, obedient, sparing the master worry, and handsome besides.

Then look at the one beside him—good for nothing, wastes everything he eats, only skill is fighting, and even that’s been outdone. He’s embarrassing to behold.

Thinking this, Zhang Jingqing glanced at Wu Xian again. Considering Wu Xian’s talent and his Reverse Life Triple cultivation, an absurd idea arose in his mind.

Maybe... I should discuss with Zuo Ruotong about switching disciples?

—

Finally, to readers who have made it this far: if you like the story, please be sure to flip a couple more pages to reach the follow page interface (not visible outside the top 100 but still effective). This is very important for the new book!

Please, whether next week’s update comes depends on these few days! Many thanks!