Chapter Seventy-Six: Unveiled

The leader of the Feng family frowned in displeasure when their path was blocked, instinctively about to rebuke, but was interrupted as Shen Qingyun announced himself.

Upon hearing that it was the chief disciple of the Leaning Bamboo Peak, Feng Xingzi immediately suppressed his words, straightened his expression, cupped his fists, and replied, "Indeed!" Then, casting a puzzled look at Shen Qingyun, he asked, "I wonder what business the chief of Cangyun Sect has with me?"

"It’s long been said that the disciples of the Feng family are all imposing and extraordinary. I have always wanted to witness this for myself!" Shen Qingyun declared. "Now that I see you today, I must say the rumors are somewhat exaggerated."

Feng Xingzi raised an eyebrow in surprise. "What sort of rumors has Chief Shen heard, and why do you say they're exaggerated?"

Shen Qingyun did not answer directly, instead asking, "I don’t yet know your name."

"Feng Xingzi, of the Feng family," he replied, then inquired, "Why does Chief Shen ask such a question?"

"So you are Feng Xingzi!?" Shen Qingyun feigned astonishment, making Feng Xingzi even more uncertain of his intentions.

"Is something the matter?"

"The rumors speak of none more outstanding among the Feng family than Feng Xingzi—not only of striking appearance, but unmatched in swordsmanship! They even say that among the younger generation, few can stand as your equal."

Shen Qingyun looked him up and down, then continued, "Now having met you, your looks are indeed commendable, but as for your swordsmanship, I remain unconvinced. Thus, I say the rumors are exaggerated!" With that, he even shook his head in mock disappointment.

Witnessing this display from Shen Qingyun, not only were his own Leaning Bamboo Peak disciples bewildered, but even the nearby scions of other noble families and disciples from various sects were left baffled. When had such rumors ever existed?

They could not fathom what Shen Qingyun was aiming at by praising Feng Xingzi so highly. Those who knew the Feng family well understood that while Feng Xingzi was decent, he was hardly as formidable as Shen Qingyun made him sound.

Yet, seeing Feng Xingzi's slightly flattered expression, their hearts stirred and they all chose to remain silent, curious to see what Shen Qingyun was really up to.

Some of the Feng family disciples seemed inclined to warn Feng Xingzi, but given the crowd, hesitated and kept quiet as well.

Feng Xingzi asked, "Then, Chief Shen, what kind of praise do you think I deserve?"

A strange look flickered across Shen Qingyun’s face. "My own judgment counts for little, but with so many present, why not have a contest and let everyone decide what description truly fits you?"

Many present showed intrigued expressions at these words.

Things were getting interesting.

"How do you propose we compete?" Feng Xingzi asked.

"As the chief, it would not be proper for me to take the field personally," Shen Qingyun shrugged. "But in my team is a swordsman as well, who could be your opponent."

"This fellow..." Many people were left speechless by this; after all that praise, he himself would not fight.

"Indeed, as the chief of a peak, Chief Shen’s status is self-evident. It would be inappropriate for you to fight personally," Feng Xingzi said seriously. "But since you recommend this swordsman so highly, he must be quite capable?"

"Of course," Shen Qingyun answered.

"Then I look forward to experiencing his skills."

"Very well, Brother Feng, please wait a moment." With that, Shen Qingyun turned back to his group, lowering his gaze to Feng Chuxun.

"What are you up to?" Feng Chuxun glared at Shen Qingyun before he could speak.

"If someone displeases you, shouldn't you go teach them a lesson?" Shen Qingyun replied with a smile.

"My issues with them are none of your concern!" Feng Chuxun retorted, his brow furrowed in annoyance.

It was clear that Feng Chuxun harbored deep resentment toward Feng Xingzi and the Feng family, and was equally displeased with Shen Qingyun’s machinations.

"Then you don't want the opportunity for a breakthrough that I’m offering you?" Shen Qingyun shook his head regretfully and sighed.

"Explain yourself!"

At the mention of a breakthrough, Feng Chuxun’s expression tightened as he looked at Shen Qingyun.

"If you win this battle, you will naturally grasp the opportunity for breakthrough," Shen Qingyun said with a faint smile. "Of course, you might also lose. If you lose, then the chance will slip away from you."

"So you’re saying I must win against him?" Feng Chuxun’s brows drew together.

"That depends on how you interpret it," Shen Qingyun replied, clearly confident that Feng Chuxun would take the bait for the sake of a breakthrough, no matter his reluctance. Still, no one could discern what Shen Qingyun truly intended.

Their conversation was kept quiet, so that only the Leaning Bamboo Peak disciples nearby could hear. To others, it was as if their lips moved without sound, for all that their voices were not magically suppressed, no one else caught a word.

With that settled, Shen Qingyun turned to Feng Xingzi and smiled, "Thank you for waiting. My teammate was a bit nervous at first, but he is ready now."

"Where shall we compete?" Feng Xingzi nodded. With so many people in the safe zone, it would hardly do to go outside.

"That’s easily solved." Shen Qingyun’s lips curled as he turned to the assembled teams, cupping his fists. "Gentlemen, I'm sure you all understand the situation. May I ask you to make a little space, so Brother Feng can showcase his skills?"

"Haha, Chief Shen is too courteous."

The surrounding teams laughed and agreed readily. Though unexpected, this was a welcome diversion. After days of intense vigilance, everyone was weary. Now there was a chance to rest and watch a duel—why not?

Soon, a space was cleared.

Shen Qingyun returned to his group, clapped Feng Chuxun on the shoulder, and murmured, "If you wish to learn more, show me your resolve here and now."

At his words, Feng Chuxun drew a deep breath; his gaze turned sharp and fierce. This was not only a chance for a breakthrough, but an opportunity to demand repayment from the Feng family!

In the center of the clearing, Feng Chuxun and Feng Xingzi faced each other. Unlike the calm appraisal of Feng Xingzi, Feng Chuxun’s eyes blazed with fighting spirit.

The disciples of Cangyun Sect recognized Feng Chuxun at once and were stunned. Feng Chuxun was known as a sword fanatic—this much was widely known in the sect. But few believed his skills truly placed him among the elite of his generation.

Many disciples were uneasy, unsure what Shen Qingyun was thinking; if Feng Chuxun lost, it would not only disgrace himself and Leaning Bamboo Peak, but the sect as a whole.

If a noble scion defeated a sect disciple, word would spread and their reputation would suffer. Was Shen Qingyun not demeaning his own side?

"Feng family, Feng Xingzi." Feng Xingzi, unable to fathom the intensity in Feng Chuxun’s eyes, nonetheless announced himself with a cupped fist.

"Cangyun disciple," Feng Chuxun responded, his stance shifting low—ready to draw his sword.

"Please advise," said Feng Xingzi.

His words had barely left his lips when Feng Chuxun sprang forward, hand gripping his sword hilt.

Feng Xingzi, surprised at his speed, reacted swiftly, a longsword of spiritual quality appearing in his hand. At the same time, a powerful aura of the Spirit Aspect stage erupted from him, pressing toward Feng Chuxun.

Confronted by this heavy pressure, Feng Chuxun drew his sword; its blade flashed, cleaving through the oppressive force barring his way. Without slowing, he continued his charge.

That Feng Chuxun could so easily break his pressure startled Feng Xingzi; he immediately abandoned attempts at intimidation, and slashed a beam of sword-light at him.

Feng Chuxun’s eyes gleamed as he dodged sideways, evading the strike. He twisted, sending his sword toward Feng Xingzi’s waist.

Clang—

A clear, ringing note sounded as Feng Chuxun’s blade was halted—another sword blocked its advance, wielded by none other than Feng Xingzi.

Feng Xingzi looked down at Feng Chuxun with a faint, dismissive sneer.

That single look sent veins bulging on Feng Chuxun’s forehead; abandoning his sword, he formed a fist and swung at Feng Xingzi’s face with a whoosh.

Feng Xingzi’s brow creased; he sensed something off. Was this truly a simple contest? If so, why was Feng Chuxun’s expression so fierce?

A flurry of thoughts raced through Feng Xingzi’s mind, until suddenly, pain exploded across his face, forcing him back two steps.

He had no time to consider the pain as he looked back at Feng Chuxun, who let out a roar that sounded—strangely—almost satisfied.

A peculiar sensation.

Feng Chuxun’s actions unsettled Feng Xingzi, stirring memories from many years past.

Feng Chuxun gripped his sword once more, blade radiating with energy; a wave of sword-qi shot forth.

Feng Xingzi cut through the sword-qi with a contemptuous smile, then performed a set of sword techniques for all to see.

At the sight of these techniques, Feng Chuxun’s body went rigid, then began to tremble violently, his sword hand shaking uncontrollably.

"You are not worthy to use those!" Feng Chuxun roared and lunged forward.

Those words left everyone stunned. What did he mean? Was this really just a duel? Feng Chuxun’s sword now carried killing intent with every stroke, as if he meant to end Feng Xingzi’s life.

Seeing him so enraged, Feng Xingzi sneered, "You’re still as unable to control your emotions as ever."

Feng Chuxun said nothing, channeling all his energy into his sword. His attack speed increased, yet he seemed barely aware of it—his eyes were bloodshot, his mind fixed on one thought: Kill him!

Feng Xingzi remained unruffled, parrying each strike with ease, preventing Feng Chuxun from drawing any closer.

Yet, as the exchange continued, Feng Xingzi noticed Feng Chuxun’s attacks growing faster, forcing him to take things more seriously.

Even so, Feng Xingzi still believed Feng Chuxun was the same stubborn, reckless boy as always.

"Give up. Back then, you were too weak to defeat me. Now, you’re still not enough. In the future, you’ll fare no better," Feng Xingzi sneered, though deep down he harbored scorn.

"Shut up!" roared Feng Chuxun, his eyes blood-red, seeming more madman than ever.

"Did I wound your fragile heart?" Feng Xingzi’s sneer deepened.

"Shut up! I’ll kill you! I’ll see the Feng line ended!" With that furious shout, Feng Chuxun heard a shattering sound in his mind, clear as day.

"He’s a madman!" The teams within the safe zone looked on with awe—he truly was mad. Others called him insane, but the Cangyun disciples felt he was madder than ever. The famed sword maniac had never acted like this before, nor said such wild words.

Sure enough, hearing this, murderous intent flashed in Feng Xingzi’s eyes. Not just his—other Feng family disciples summoned their spiritual weapons, preparing to intervene.

But Feng Xingzi stopped them.

"No need—I’ll handle this myself," he declared, then turned to Feng Chuxun, who was still attacking relentlessly. "You were lucky to survive then. Today, let me send you on your way once more!"

His words left the crowd even more bewildered. What kind of grudge could prompt such words?

As Feng Xingzi finished speaking, a majestic lion appeared behind him, exuding a kingly aura that made Feng Chuxun instinctively retreat.

"It’s Feng Xingzi’s Spirit Aspect!" someone cried out.

"Despair, do you?" Feng Xingzi asked, gazing at Feng Chuxun. "We once started from the same line, but I have already stepped into the Spirit Aspect realm ahead of you."

"So what!" Feng Chuxun growled, fury blazing in his chest.

"You still don’t understand?" Feng Xingzi sneered. "Foundation Establishment and Spirit Aspect are worlds apart. Now you’re nothing more than an ant—I can crush you with a flick of my hand."

"If it’s so easy, come try!" Feng Chuxun snarled.

"Courting death!" A cold light flashed in Feng Xingzi’s eyes. Suddenly, a shadow shot forward, moving even faster than Feng Chuxun had before, and appeared before him in a heartbeat.

Feng Chuxun’s vision blurred as a sense of danger engulfed him. It was Feng Xingzi’s Spirit Aspect—the lion raised a paw, seeming to wield crushing force.

Just as Feng Chuxun tried to raise his sword, a gust of wind struck, pain exploded in his chest, and he was sent flying, blood spraying vividly in the air.

"So fast!" Many present were inwardly shocked; most hadn’t even seen how Feng Xingzi’s Spirit Aspect moved. By the time they realized, it was already upon Feng Chuxun...