The Transmigrator's Cultivation

Chapter 157 - Arc 11: The Sect's Grand Competition | Chapter 157: Match 4

Translator: Lynn

Today, Du Zihui was adorned in a flamboyant five-color cassock, which gave him a striking appearance. However, he carried himself with a newfound dignity, making him more pleasing to the eye than in the past. When he stepped onto the martial arts stage, Qiu Ze, Long Xuan, and Yue Jun, recognizing him, collectively turned their gaze toward Luo Yao, their expressions tinged with concern.

The fact that this individual had previously caused trouble for Luo Yao made their encounter in this competition feel like an unfortunate stroke of bad luck.

Xu Ziqing was aware of the history between Du Zihui and Luo Yao to some extent. Seeing everyone treating Du Zihui as a formidable adversary, he too couldn’t help but feel apprehensive for Luo Yao.

However, as they hadn’t forged a deep connection yet, there were certain things he couldn’t express openly. Instead, he discreetly shifted his attention to Du Zihui, observing him closely.

During this observation, he was taken aback.

Given Xu Ziqing’s current cultivation in the mid-stage of foundation establishment, if he couldn’t discern the other party’s cultivation level, it implied that Du Zihui’s realm exceeded his own.

Contrary to his previous impression of Du Zihui as a carefree individual, it appeared that Du Zihui had advanced to the later stages of foundation establishment.

However, what Xu Ziqing couldn’t ascertain was whether Du Zihui’s foundation was solid or if he had relied on pills to reach his current state.

With Luo Yao now facing Du Zihui and their past entanglements, the outcome was uncertain.

While everyone else worried about Luo Yao, he appeared surprisingly composed.

It wasn’t that he underestimated the gravity of the situation. Rather, Du Zihui had made bold statements before the grand competition, suggesting that “after the competition, Luo Yao would become a member of the Du family.” By that time, Luo Yao had already prepared himself for whatever lay ahead.

Moreover, during his earlier bouts in the martial arts arena, he had encountered a monk or two who usually associated with Du Zihui. Luo Yao had managed to defeat them using his own means, so facing Du Zihui now was not entirely unexpected.

With this in mind, Luo Yao couldn’t help but sneer.

While he didn’t know the exact method Du Zihui had employed to orchestrate this confrontation, given Du Zihui’s family background, it was unlikely to be a significant issue. Nonetheless, this competition did maintain a degree of fairness, with the sect’s rules being stringent. Du Zihui could only intervene in terms of opponents, and everything had to remain aboveboard.

If he were outmatched, then it simply meant his skills weren’t on par with the opponent’s, and he would readily admit it. No matter how many tricks Du Zihui had up his sleeve, they wouldn’t affect the outcome.

Delaying the competition was punishable as abstention, so there was no room for hesitation.

Luo Yao didn’t engage in much conversation with his friends; instead, he immediately leaped onto the stage, positioning himself opposite Du Zihui.

Upon seeing Luo Yao, Du Zihui sneered, “Luo Yao, it’s truly surprising that you’ve come this far, but you’re still just a long way off.”

In the face of Du Zihui’s provocation, Luo Yao maintained a composed smile, responding, “Since I’m not strong enough, there’s no need for you to trouble yourself. Wouldn’t it be better to let this insignificant person go? The Du family is vast; why bother with me?”

Du Zihui’s expression darkened. “If you won’t submit willingly, you’ll be punished,” he retorted. “I wanted you to surrender, but you refuse. You’re showing disrespect towards me!”

Luo Yao’s expression remained unwavering. “If I apologize and admit fault, you can call it quits at any time. I’m ready to accept punishment at any moment, Young Master Du, without delay.”

As the two exchanged words, Luo Yao’s demeanor remained composed. However, Du Zihui, who had initiated the confrontation, was seething with anger, his eyes nearly ablaze.

Observing from the high platform, Xu Ziqing and the others couldn’t help but feel more anxious. If Luo Yao’s behavior continued to provoke Du Zihui, things might escalate further.

Indeed, Du Zihui’s face turned ashen, and he declared, “No need to think about it!” Then, like a cheetah, he crouched low, his muscles tensing.

Luo Yao let out a controlled breath, recognizing that Du Zihui was about to make a move. He took his time, flicking his fingers one by one, summoning a talisman at the tip of each digit. Prepared for this confrontation, his fingers danced like plucking strings, tracing elegant patterns in the air, creating ripples that moved in harmony. With a soft “swoosh,” the magic talismans sprang to life.

Simultaneously, Du Zihui sprang into action, his movements resembling a lightning bolt as he charged rapidly toward Luo Yao!

However, with a resounding “thud,” Du Zihui collided with an invisible barrier and came to an abrupt stop.

Standing there, he gazed upon ten talismans that floated around him, seemingly moving in accordance with some arcane pattern. In their dance, they wove a formidable barrier.

At this moment, Du Zihui shed his usual carefree image. His face turned incredibly serious. It was as if a transparent leopard’s head enveloped his own, evoking the primal wildness of a beast. In the next instant, as if driven by instinct, he let out a guttural roar, lunged at the barrier, and charged again!

Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!

As Du Zihui repeatedly collided with the barrier, it created air ripples around the ten talismans, seemingly on the verge of faltering and becoming unstable.

In response, Luo Yao flicked another talisman from his fingers.

This talisman adhered to the barrier, casting it in a radiant golden light. In this state, the barrier appeared significantly reinforced, impervious to Du Zihui’s relentless attacks.

After several fruitless attempts, Du Zihui eventually retreated, although his body still retained its beast-like demeanor.

At this moment, his right knee bent slightly, his five fingers curled, and a translucent air mass formed in his palm.

Soon after, the air mass exploded and extended over his five fingers, transforming into a colossal claw that seemed to lift the heavens, exuding immense pressure.

Du Zihui’s voice grew raspy as he roared like a wild leopard, “Leopard’s Claw Rending—”

With those words, the colossal claw soaring in the air lunged forward, mercilessly tearing the golden barrier into shreds!

Under the surge of true essence, the fierce wind brought about by the giant claw also tore apart the talismans.

Luo Yao’s form was fully exposed in Du Zihui’s view. In response, Luo Yao traced a circle with his right hand, and the magic talisman between his fingers ignited without a visible flame. It transformed into a shield, standing as tall as a person, and blocked the oncoming giant claw.

The giant claw’s duration was limited, and even if it dissipated, the shield would vanish instantly.

Du Zihui’s current form, half-human and half-leopard, was the result of mastering a profound martial art known as the “Leopard Emperor Fist.” When he spoke, his voice carried a more domineering tone than usual—resembling the wildness of a mountain king. “Luo Yao, despite your collection of talismans, you’re merely a small fry in the grand scheme of things. Unless you can craft treasure talismans, you’re no match for me.”

Luo Yao’s gaze bore a weighty expression. He used to disdain Du Zihui for his slovenly appearance. Yet, he hadn’t anticipated that the man possessed considerable strength.

It seemed that his talisman had initially blocked Du Zihui’s assault, but Du Zihui had swiftly adapted and promptly obliterated his talisman.

Given this scenario, regardless of how agile he was, he likely wouldn’t be able to counter the leopard’s claw.

Unless… that technique demanded a substantial amount of real energy. If Luo Yao could deplete Du Zihui’s reserves before he executed the move, victory might be within reach.

With this thought in mind, Luo Yao flicked his fingers at an accelerated pace.

In the blink of an eye, hundreds of talismans materialized around Du Zihui.

Luo Yao’s voice was cold as he declared, “Try this talisman array before making any further noise!”

As the words left his lips, five talismans erupted, unleashing interwoven nets of flames.

Their intense battle held the spectators on the high platform in rapt attention.

Yue Jun furrowed his brows and remarked, “I thought Du Zihui was nothing more than a lackadaisical member of the honor guard family, but it appears his foundation is quite solid. It doesn’t seem like he artificially enhanced it with pills.”

Long Xuan, after witnessing Du Zihui’s Leopard Emperor Fist, brimmed with fighting spirit. “What an imposing martial art technique, and that grasp is incredible!” He added, “Luo Yao is manipulating the talismans skillfully, but with such formidable power, I fear he may be outmatched.”

Qiu Ze harbored even greater concern. “Du Zihui’s cultivation is higher than Luo Yao’s, and he has accumulated a substantial amount of power. Even if Luo Yao aims for a leapfrog victory, it will be an arduous task.” He sighed, “In the past, I witnessed Du Zihui bullying Luo Yao with a magic weapon, and I assumed that was the extent of his abilities. If they were to face off on the competition stage, perhaps he wouldn’t be able to match a magic weapon as well. As long as Luo Yao finds an opening, he shouldn’t fear him. But I never expected that this time, he wouldn’t employ any magic weapons and even possessed a potent martial art technique. It’s truly astonishing.”

Unbeknownst to them, Xu Ziqing listened to their discussion, gaining further insight into the complex relationship between Luo Yao and Du Zihui.

However, Xu Ziqing couldn’t comprehend why Du Zihui continued to create trouble with Luo Yao despite his evident capabilities. If it was merely due to Luo Yao’s defiance and Du Zihui’s wounded pride, there must be room for reconciliation.

From Xu Ziqing’s perspective, there would be nothing wrong if Luo Yao sought refuge within the Du family. Given Luo Yao’s simmering grudge and the formidable nature of his adversary, seeking vengeance on his own would be an arduous endeavor. Joining the Du family could provide him with a powerful patron.

Moreover, pursuing the study of talismans would demand substantial effort in earning credit points to acquire necessary resources independently. By joining the Du family, Luo Yao could benefit from subsidies and resources. If his true aim was vengeance, this appeared to be a prudent course of action, even if it meant sacrificing some personal freedom.

Additionally, regardless of one’s location, until they reached the pinnacle of the immortal path, they would always be subject to some form of restraint.

With these thoughts in mind, Xu Ziqing voiced his confusion to the others, seeking their insight on the matter.

Yue Jun shook her head and explained, “When Du Zihui first approached Luo Yao, his demeanor was far from pleasing. Given Luo Yao’s character, he naturally disliked such behavior and politely declined his offer. However, Du Zihui seemed quite persistent. His continual harassment triggered Luo Yao’s defiance, making him increasingly reluctant to join. This ongoing cycle eventually led to the current situation.”

The others nodded in agreement, exchanging wry smiles. “In hindsight, aside from occasionally pestering Luo Yao, Du Zihui hasn’t done anything overly malicious. If only he had showcased his strength earlier, we wouldn’t have judged him so harshly.”

Xu Ziqing nodded and contemplated, “In that case, perhaps I can try to persuade Luo Yao…”

Recognizing that he and Luo Yao hadn’t known each other for long, Xu Ziqing felt somewhat hesitant. However, Qiu Ze and the others didn’t share this constraint.

Understanding this perspective, the three of them sighed softly and gave their consent.

After these brief discussions, their attention shifted back to the martial arts stage.

In reality, they had foreseen Luo Yao’s defeat as soon as Du Zihui revealed his leopard claws.

As expected, although the entwined fire net held formidable power, Du Zihui remained entirely unaffected within its confines.

The fire net enveloped Du Zihui’s form momentarily, but almost instantly, it was entirely absorbed by his flamboyant and ostentatious cassock.

The hundreds of talismans whirled relentlessly, unleashing a barrage of attacks.

There were numerous torrents of raging fires, floods, thunder and lightning strikes, as well as the resonance of swords and blades, and even the formation of true essence vortexes. All of these assaults converged on Du Zihui.

Many onlookers among the monks observed this bewildering spectacle, finding it challenging to comprehend or respond to.

Yet, Du Zihui continued to allow the talismans to strike him, completely unharmed. He calmly explained, “This cassock of mine is a spiritual weapon. Attacks related to the five elements have no effect on me. Unless your true essence surpasses mine, you won’t be able to break through it. Currently, my realm surpasses yours, making you no match for me!”

Luo Yao refrained from launching further attacks. Realizing that he couldn’t harm his opponent, he chose not to squander any more talismans.

Du Zihui’s effortless victory left Luo Yao somewhat taken aback. The opponent’s strength was undeniably overpowering, and he had to admit that he might have misjudged Du Zihui. Even though he couldn’t fully comprehend Du Zihui’s past actions, the opponent’s formidable strength was undeniable.

Seeing Luo Yao’s silence, Du Zihui grew agitated once more. “You used to disdain me and rejected my recruitment. Now that I have clearly surpassed you, do you have any reason to decline my offer?”

Luo Yao was momentarily stunned by Du Zihui’s words. He hadn’t expected that Du Zihui’s intentions were to recruit him. A perplexed expression crossed his face as he asked, “You still want to recruit me?”

Du Zihui became furious. “I’ve invited you ninety-two times, and every one of those invitations was to recruit you!”

Luo Yao gazed silently at Du Zihui and conceded, “I admit defeat.”

With that, he left Du Zihui alone on the martial arts stage, flying back to join his group of friends.

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