A journey through the world of martial arts

Chapter 419 Night Detective
Inside the Sword Hall, the Sword Venerable introduced everyone present to Guan Yutian. When Jian Yang was introduced, Guan Yutian's eyes narrowed, and a slight ripple appeared in his heart. The Sword Venerable had even brought out Jian Yang; the Sword Casting City was indeed a place with profound heritage.

"So it's Senior Jianyang. I sincerely admire your feat of wiping out all the demons of Zheyun Mountain with a single sword back then."

Upon hearing this, Jian Yang's eyes flashed with a sharp light, and he stroked his beard and smiled, "That was all many years ago, it's remarkable that Alliance Leader Guan still remembers it so clearly."

Guan Yutian chuckled, then looked at Gu Xu standing beside the Sword Master. He quickly stepped forward and said to Gu Xu, "It's been a long time. How have you been, Daoist Master?"

"Thank you for your concern, Alliance Leader. I am doing well, but it seems that your martial arts have improved considerably since I last saw you."

"Hehe, I've only gained a little, and haven't wasted any time."

Guan Yutian chuckled lightly, slightly startled. He immediately turned to look at the Sword Master and said solemnly, "When I entered the city just now, I saw a purple-white rainbow soaring into the sky. I suppose the training of the Frost Sword must have reached a critical moment."

"Indeed, in another month the sword will turn into a white rainbow. At that time, we must put the Nine Dragon Stone into the sword body in time to create the sword soul. Only then can it be considered completely forged."

"I have already brought the Nine Dragon Stone, and I will complete this final step in due time. However, before that, I have something else to discuss with the City Lord."

Upon hearing this, Sword Master and Gu Xu exchanged a glance, and the others also turned their gazes towards him. A glint flashed in Sword Master's eyes, and he said in a deep voice, "I wonder what Alliance Leader Guan wishes to discuss?"

“Helian Ba!” Guan Yutian glanced at everyone present, taking in their expressions, and finally fixed his gaze on the Sword Master, continuing, “Not long ago, Helian Ba ​​brought people to me, seeking an alliance to deal with your sect. Although the Sea Shark Palace was destroyed, its strength still remains. In addition, it has gathered some rogue cultivators, including experts like Changyangzi, Fu Xiao, and Zhao Qian. Together, they are a force to be reckoned with.”

"This is happening!"

Sword Master's expression changed slightly as he looked at Guan Yutian, who replied calmly, "This matter is absolutely true. However, I, the Alliance Leader, dislike these underhanded tactics the most. Although the Frost Sword is a divine weapon of heaven and earth, and everyone wants to obtain it, including myself, a divine weapon belongs to the capable. I believe I have the ability to acquire this sword, and naturally I cannot tolerate such despicable behavior. Therefore, when Helian Ba ​​wanted to form an alliance, I only verbally agreed to appease him for the time being."

After Guan Yutian finished speaking, everyone present had different expressions. Huangfu Changhen and Master Sixin had strange expressions, Jiu Zhongxian looked disgusted, the other seven elders, such as Jianyang, were full of astonishment, while Gu Xu remained calm, making it impossible to read his expression.

"Leader Guan, please speak frankly."

Sword Master felt a wave of disgust. What Guan Yutian said might be true, but what did it have to do with him? Sword Casting City was already prepared to deal with the two factions joining forces. No matter what moves they made, their formation would not change easily. However, Sword Master wanted to see what Guan Yutian was up to.

"Helian Ba ​​killed your sect's Xuanjian Twin Heroes. How can this grudge go unavenged? Our sect has fought Helian Ba ​​to the death and has long been sworn enemies. We can be said to have a common enemy. Why not deal with Helian Ba ​​first and then decide who owns the Ling Shuang Sword?"

"So that's what Alliance Leader Guan was planning. It's quite unexpected. But I'd like to know how the Frost Sword will end up. Judging from Alliance Leader Guan's expression, he seems to have already made up his mind."

Sword Master took a deep breath, suppressing the nausea in his heart. In the short time he hadn't seen Guan Yutian, the changes were truly remarkable. He had changed from his former domineering and unruly ways to a sinister and cunning one, making it difficult for Sword Master to see through him for a while.

"Lord of the City, let's speak frankly. The reason why the Frost Sword was forged in the Sword Forging City is because of the forging methods left behind by the Demon Sword Clan. It is also because of these forging techniques that the Sword Forging City was able to restore its former glory in just sixty years. This favor is immense. As a descendant of the Demon Sword Clan, I could very well have taken the Frost Sword according to the agreement between our two families' ancestors. However, I also know that your sect has made great contributions, so I am willing to have a sword duel to determine the ownership of this sword. What does the Lord of the City think?"

After hearing this, Gu Xu glanced at Guan Yutian indifferently, already understanding Guan Yutian's purpose. He saw that the Sword Casting City's strength was no less than that of the Supreme Alliance and wanted to narrow the gap between the two sides through a sword duel. Moreover, he was also certain that the Sword Casting City would not resort to underhanded tactics, so he openly challenged Guan Yutian to a duel.

"Guan Yutian's idea is not bad, but it's too late. The entire preparation of Sword Casting City is aimed at the Supreme Alliance and Helian Ba's side. It will not disrupt its own rhythm. Otherwise, the advantages accumulated in the early stage will be lost, and Sword Master will definitely not agree."

Just as Gu Xu was deep in thought, the Sword Master replied calmly, "Although what Alliance Leader Guan said sounds reasonable, I find it hard to agree with. Although the Sword Clan did receive the forging techniques of the Demon Sword Clan, we also sent a batch of high-quality swords every five years. After sixty years, we can say that we have repaid our debt of gratitude. Apart from that, for the past sixty years, your side has remained indifferent, only waiting for the day the divine sword is born. I ask you, where has the effort that the Sword Clan has poured into it for sixty years gone?"

Sword Master's resounding words made Guan Yutian's expression darken slightly, and he was quite displeased. However, now was not the time to officially turn against him. After pondering for a while, he chuckled and said, "If that's the case, then let's put this matter aside for now. Why don't we talk about how to deal with Helian Ba ​​first? This person is ultimately an obstacle, so it's best to get rid of him as soon as possible."

"Since this is something that benefits both of us, I have no reason to refuse. I wonder if Alliance Leader Guan has any good ideas?"

Sword Master stared intently at Guan Yutian. After all, this was Sword Forging City. He wanted to see what tricks Guan Yutian could pull. It would be best if he could get rid of Helian Ba ​​without much effort. Even if he couldn't, he should take the opportunity to eliminate a few people from the Supreme Alliance. This would alleviate some of the pressure when the Divine Sword was born.

“Helian Ba ​​is cunning and shrewd, and always acts cautiously. This matter is really difficult for my family to accomplish on its own. We still need the city lord’s help.”

"Oh, I'd love to hear the details."

"Recently, our leader and Helian Ba ​​formed an alliance. On the day the Frost Sword was born, we released crimson flames as a signal and launched a surprise attack on the city. We can use this to our advantage."

Sword Master's pupils contracted slightly, and he asked in a deep voice, "How exactly?"

"Fireworks were set off the day before the divine sword was born, but in order to deceive Helian Ba, the sword light of Ling Shuang had to be made to look real."

After speaking, Guan Yutian looked at Gu Xu, who was standing next to the Sword Master.

Upon hearing Guan Yutian's words, Sword Master immediately realized what was going on and sneered inwardly. Guan Yutian's plan was truly shrewd. In the end, he had set his sights on Daoist Gu Xu. In the city, only Daoist Gu Xu possessed such abilities. If he agreed to this move, it would undoubtedly weaken Daoist Gu Xu's power. When the divine sword was truly unearthed the next day, he might have some difficulty dealing with Arrow Shadow.

Just as Sword Master was about to refuse, he suddenly heard Gu Xu's voice in his ear.

"If the city lord agrees, I can set up the formation at the same time."

Upon hearing this, the Sword Master considered it for a moment, and then said to Guan Yutian, "Alliance Leader Guan's plan is excellent, and I can agree to it. However, during this period, Sword Forging City may not be able to properly entertain you all."

"That's fine. We can take the opportunity to see all the sights in the city. Could the city lord send a capable person to act as our guide?"

When Guan Yutian heard that the Sword Master had agreed, a glint flashed in his eyes.

"The Sword Master agreed so easily, he must have had Gu Xu's approval. Could this person really be so confident of victory?"

Regardless, Guan Yutian believed he had narrowed the gap between the two sides as much as possible. As long as Jian Yin could hold off Gu Xu for a while, he was confident he could defeat Jian Zun in the shortest possible time.

“That’s easy.” Sword Master readily agreed, and planned to find a few clever disciples to lead Guan Yutian and the others around the city.

"Okay, then it's settled."

Upon hearing this, Sword Master nodded and then said to Sword Xiong, "Xiong'er, take Alliance Leader Guan to Qingxin Garden and make sure to take good care of all the food and drink."

"Yes."

Upon hearing this, the cunning and ruthless man stood up and said, "Yes."

Upon seeing this, Guan Yutian clasped his hands in a salute to Sword Master and Gu Xu, nodded to the others, and then left the Sword Hall with Sword Xiong.

"Lord, Guan Yutian must have a bigger scheme behind selling Helian Ba ​​like this."

After watching Guan Yutian leave, Jianyang immediately spoke up to express his opinion. Huangfu Changhen also said in a deep voice, "No matter what Guan Yutian wants to do, we cannot abandon our previous arrangements. Changing strategies at critical moments is a major taboo and should never be done."

Seeing this, Abbess Sixin said calmly, "Don't underestimate Helian Ba. He is treacherous and cunning. In my opinion, his alliance with Guan Yutian is nothing more than a case of each having their own ulterior motives. He must have been holding back a secret. Guan Yutian betrayed him, and at the crucial moment, he will not hesitate to betray the Supreme Alliance."

“What the nun said is true. I don’t know much about Guan Yutian. He only has one Ling Shuang Sword. But Helian Ba ​​will never be willing to do something for someone else. The most likely scenario is that he’s waiting for me and the Supreme Alliance to fight to the death so that he can clean up the mess. However, Helian Ba ​​is not a fool. He may not be unaware of Guan Yutian’s actions today. It’s very possible that when Guan Yutian sets a trap for him, he will not fall for it. Instead, he will lie in wait and wait for the day when the Ling Shuang Sword is born.”

On that day, both sides will focus more on the Frostbite Sword. Once we start fighting, it won't stop for a while. If he leads a surprise attack then, there's a good chance he'll catch us off guard.

After the Immortal of Wine finished speaking, everyone present fell silent for a moment, as they believed that what the Immortal of Wine said was highly likely.

"In my opinion, if Helian Ba ​​and the others don't fall for the trap, we should follow the original strategy and use the formation to defeat them one by one, so that we don't have to spend too much effort."

"Yes, please take good care of the formation, Daoist. However, we must not let Guan Yutian see any flaws. During this period, everyone should recuperate in their respective residences and not leave seclusion unless necessary. Just wait for the divine sword to be born."

Upon hearing this, the seven elders, including Jian Yang, solemnly agreed. Huangfu Changhen and the others nodded. After exchanging a few more pleasantries, the Sword Venerable dispersed. Soon, only the Sword Venerable and Gu Xu remained in the Sword Hall.

"Daoist Master, Guan Yutian's strength has improved a lot again. If it were a one-on-one fight, my Dragon Riding Slash would definitely be insufficient to deal with his innate qi."

Ever since Guan Yutian entered the main hall, the Sword Master had been observing him constantly. Without making a move to test him, judging from the aura emanating from Guan Yutian, he had almost reached the threshold of the Innate Realm. The powerful aura he exuded made the Sword Master quite alarmed.

"The city lord is right. Guan Yutian's Xuanqiao has already been opened. He is just waiting for the spiritual energy brought by the birth of the divine sword to enter this realm in one fell swoop. However, this step is very dangerous. If he cannot withstand it, he will be burst by the spiritual energy. If he is timid, he will lose this only opportunity. Therefore, the degree of control must be very precise."

Gu Xu also greatly admired Guan Yutian. The spiritual energy in this world is abundant enough to support top experts to step into the Innate Realm, but those with obvious weaknesses will never be able to reach this level. Helian Ba ​​and the Sword Master are among them.

In contrast, Guan Yutian is skilled in both internal and external cultivation, emphasizing both offense and defense. If it weren't for Gu Xu, he would undoubtedly be the number one person in this world. If he hadn't placed too much importance on Ren Qianxing later, even the Arrow Hidden would have to think twice before defeating him with the Frost Sword in hand.

"When the city lord fights Guan Yutian, it is enough to hold him off for half an hour. The rest can be left to me."

Upon hearing this, the Sword Master said in a deep voice, "Sword Forging City cannot place all the pressure on the Daoist. Although I am incompetent, I will do my best to stop Guan Yutian. I may get into trouble, but the Daoist must not suffer any mishap!"

Gu Xu chuckled upon hearing this, then nodded.

On the other side, Jianxiong led Guan Yutian to Qingxin Garden. Lanterns were already lit on the garden gate, emitting an orange-red light that illuminated every detail of the half-zhang area.

"Your sect has gone to great lengths to provide the Night Light of Sword Forging City," Guan Yutian said, praising the soft glow of the lamplight.

The Night Light Fire, made of some unknown material, could dispel the surrounding darkness once lit, making it difficult for even the most stealthy techniques to conceal one's presence.

"As the Alliance Leader is an honored guest, everything is done according to the City Lord's orders. If there is nothing else, Senior, I will take my leave now."

Jianxiong clasped his hands in a salute and then strode away.

"Master."

Ren Qianxing walked out of the garden and stood next to Guan Yutian. The latter did not turn around and asked in a calm voice, "How confident are you in defeating this boy?"

"Within thirty moves."

Upon hearing this, Guan Yutian turned around, looked at him, and said, "Thirty moves is too arbitrary. In my opinion, you won't be able to defeat him within a hundred moves. Even if you use the One Sword Separates Worlds technique, your chances of winning are only 60%."

"Why do you say that, Master?"

"This kid has at least mastered the seventh level of the Dragon Riding Slash, and he has a carefree spirit very similar to Gu Xu's. He must have learned some of Gu Xu's moves. The moves he uses have never appeared in the martial arts world before. Once you start fighting him, you will need some time to adapt."

Ren Qianxing frowned upon hearing this, but he still said, "No matter what moves he uses, I will defeat them with a single sword strike!"

"it is good!"

Guan Yutian looked at Ren Qianxing with satisfaction, patted him on the shoulder, and the two walked into Qingxin Garden one after the other. After chatting with everyone until midnight, several dark figures flew out of Qingxin Garden. A strong wind howled, causing the lanterns to sway and the lights to flicker. The dark figures reflected by the night light on the ground flashed by and disappeared in the blink of an eye.

(End of this chapter)