Simulation becomes reality, have I ever looked down upon the eternity?

Chapter 570 The Purple-Gold Horned Ant Larvae's Comparison of Calligraphy and Painting!

A sense of melancholy and worry settled over the disciples of Xiaoqing Peak.

In the afternoon, Shen Qingxue and Shan Fang returned, but the former looked weak. Even with treatment from the mountain sorcerers, it seemed unlikely she would regain her original strength for the competition a few days later.

The crowd dispersed; tomorrow would be the calligraphy and painting competition at Fire Cloud Peak.

【at night!】

Behind Xiaoqingfeng Mountain, the bamboo forest is secluded and quiet, bathed in moonlight like water.

A graceful figure stood silently beneath the moonlight, seemingly having waited for some time. A golden flying ant perched on her shoulder, its wings fluttering softly, subtly revealing its wariness.

She suddenly turned around, her voice tinged with excitement: "Senior brother, you've come?"

The bamboo shadows rustled slightly, and a soft reply came: "Mm."

You emerge from the shadows, your gaze sweeping over the golden ant on her shoulder, its wings poised to take flight. You can't help but remark, "As expected of the Purple-Gold Heavenly Horned Ant, even in its juvenile stage, its senses are already so acute."

[Your ability to be detected is beyond Shen Qingxue's current cultivation level—all because this true spirit, still in its embryonic stage, possesses innate spiritual awareness that is beyond the reach of ordinary beings.]

[It played a crucial role in Shen Qingxue's victory today. Although many people may have noticed that this ant was extraordinary, they would hardly have guessed that it was the Purple-Gold Heavenly Horned Ant.]

After all, true spirits have vanished from this world.

[“Buzz…buzz…”]

The golden flying ant suddenly took flight from Shen Qingxue's shoulder, its wings vibrating with a chilling sound.

[Its body suddenly revealed purple-gold patterns, and its aura abruptly turned fierce and menacing—clearly, it still harbored resentment towards you for taking its blood.]

Although this larva is young, it possesses a vengeful nature.

Shen Qingxue tried several times to suppress it with the "Beast Master Contract," but all her efforts were in vain. The True Spirit was unruly, far surpassing ordinary spirit beasts; even in its juvenile form, it was difficult to tame.

As recorded in ancient texts, even a powerful being who rides a true spirit as a mount must be constantly vigilant against their mount's treachery if they lack protective magic or are in a weakened state.

[You, however, seemed unconcerned, gazing at the restless golden ants, and said slowly, "It seems your ambition remains, your wild nature still lingers."]

As you spoke, a breeze suddenly stirred in the bamboo grove, which had been shrouded in a light mist under the moonlight.

[The purple-gold horned ant seemed to sense something amiss, and like a human, it suddenly froze. In its pupils, the aura of the person standing before it changed drastically; a sacred, primal, and terrifying power strangely and harmoniously merged, with five-colored divine light flowing erratically.]

Five colors of light intertwined, creating a wondrous and dazzling spectacle.

Although it did not recognize what this thing was, an unprecedented fear welled up from the depths of its true spirit, as if it had encountered an existence of the same or even higher level.

The ant's imposing aura vanished instantly. It hastily flapped its wings, trying to hide behind Shen Qingxue's ear.

A five-colored mountain pattern appeared on your forehead; with a casual wave of your hand, the divine light enveloped the flying ants like a net.

It struggled desperately, but the purple-gold light around it continuously melted away amidst the five-colored radiance, finally revealing its panic. It buzzed urgently, but its previous ferocity was gone.

You smiled faintly, and with a gentle flick of your fingers, you held the tiny flying ant, as large as an autumn cicada, between your fingers.

[This is the innate divine power you gained from refining the "Great Ming Peacock" Dharma Body—Five-Colored Divine Light.]

Even a true spirit larva like the Purple-Gold Horned Ant can be easily "tamed".

The light surrounding the Purple-Gold Heavenly Horned Ant quickly dimmed, and even its dazzling golden patterns gradually faded.

It finally realized how terrifying the person before it was, and dared not show the slightest arrogance again.

This is precisely the power of the "Five-Colored Divine Light"—it sweeps away everything and leaves nothing behind. Even the innate divine power of the Purple-Gold Heavenly Horned Ant was completely suppressed, and the seal was utterly broken.

You flick your finger to tease the flying ant, and it doesn't dare to move an inch.

"If the child misbehaves, a good beating will fix it."

"If things continue like this, I will strip you of all your vital energy and supernatural powers."

"Did you understand?"

The flying ant responded with a soft buzzing, its previous ferocity completely gone.

You released your fingers, withdrawing the five-colored divine light. Only then did the purple-gold patterns on the flying ant gradually regain their luster.

It hurriedly flapped its wings and flew back behind Shen Qingxue's ear, nestling in her hair. When it looked at you again, it was filled with fear, but also with a hint of doubt.

[What exactly is that on the other side? It seems to be a true spirit of the same kind, or perhaps someone who has joined the clan!]

You then turned to the girl in the woods and asked, "How are your injuries?"

Shen Qingxue seemed still immersed in the scene just now. Upon hearing this, she snapped out of her reverie and quickly replied, "Don't worry, Senior Brother, it's nothing."

You nodded slightly. "A cultivator need not always be the first to step forward. You are new to the path, your cultivation is still shallow, and victories and defeats are commonplace. After five years, these people will find it difficult to be your match."

"The key to spiritual cultivation lies within oneself."

"Qingxue understands and will certainly remember Senior Brother's teachings."

[After a moment's thought, you continued, "As for you, a spirit beast—a true spirit, you differ from humans, often fearing power but not gratitude."]

"If it remains untamed in the future, simply refine or kill it; there's no need to feel sorry for it."

The flying ant, already possessing supernatural abilities, showed even greater fear upon hearing this, and quietly hid further among its hair.

Shen Qingxue replied, "Yes, Senior Brother."

You concluded by saying, "It's getting late, let's go back."

[This Heavenly Horned Ant was originally a gift you gave to Shen Qingxue. If it were to be harmed due to loss of control, you would be uneasy. True spirits become increasingly extraordinary with each breakthrough in their cultivation realm. This ant has already reached the Dao Embryo Realm; its cultivation will only accelerate in the future, and it may even surpass its master, becoming the dominant force.]

Your presence today can be seen as a form of intimidation.

However, once a Heavenly Horned Ant reaches adulthood, it will possess the cultivation level to overcome the Second Nine Heavenly Tribulation and attain the Golden Core stage. At that time, Shen Qingxue will have an additional True Spirit protecting her, a rare find even in this realm.

[Afterwards, Shen Qingxue will be destined to leave her mark on Fangcun Mountain thanks to this.]

If the Fire Dragon Scale Peak knew that someone could use a true spirit as a beast pet, they would probably be green with envy, for this was the lifelong wish of their lineage.

Your figure gradually faded into the bamboo shadows. Since mastering the "Five-Colored Divine Light," your aura has become increasingly concealed. Even if you are still in the Chen Kingdom at this moment, if you do not make a move, even if the "Demon Lord of All Living Beings" and the "Ancestor of the Imperial Capital" were to appear in person, they might not be able to discern your whereabouts.

Shen Qingxue reached out her hand and hurriedly called out, "Senior Brother,"

You gently raised your eyes. "Hmm? What's wrong?"

Shen Qingxue met your gaze, a faint blush rising to her cheeks. After a moment, she said, "Qingxue, I forgot to congratulate my senior brother on winning first place in array debunking."

You said, "No, the second one?"

"In Qingxue's heart, her senior brother has always been number one."

["Wishing you, senior brother, a resounding victory in tomorrow's calligraphy and painting competition, and may your name resound throughout the sect."]

You smiled and said, "Then I'll accept your kind words, Junior Sister."

Shen Qingxue hesitated slightly before asking softly, "Senior Brother... do you plan to go to the Heavenly Emperor's Treasury and then leave Fangcun Mountain?" You were slightly surprised that she could see through you, but then answered frankly, "Yes, perhaps I will travel to various parts of this world."

Shen Qingxue lowered her head and whispered, "I remember that Senior Brother was born in Qinghe County... If Senior Brother travels the world in the future, Qingxue will take care of him..."

Before she could finish her sentence, you understood her meaning and smiled slightly, replying, "Then thank you in advance, Junior Sister."

"It doesn't have to be intentional; it's intentional anyway."

Before the words had even finished, your figure had completely disappeared into the shadows of the bamboo forest, vanishing without a trace.

Shen Qingxue was still staring blankly in the direction you disappeared, a soft murmur escaping her lips: "Senior Brother..."

She touched her cheeks, her face flushing even more. "Does today count as a date alone with my senior brother?"

"Shen Qingxue, you need to calm down, calm down."

~

The following day, as the sun rose, the sky was painted with rosy clouds.

[Fire Cloud Peak was already filled with disciples from various sects; the air was thick with the sounds of voices and the atmosphere solemn.]

The ninety arenas remain as they were, arranged in order. Unlike the magical duels, all ninety participants in the first round of formation challenges are still present, and unlike the magical duels, there are no eliminations.

This calligraphy and painting competition will again feature ninety participants competing on the same stage.

You are already standing in a ring.

The platform was only ten feet wide, with a writing desk in the center, upon which were placed writing brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones.

These are not ordinary stationery items, but consecrated objects imbued with spiritual light and divine power; their brushstrokes and ink can connect with the spiritual energy of heaven and earth.

The rules for today's calligraphy and painting competition are quite simple, requiring no evaluation from cultivators.

On the platform, over a thousand ink-wash-like fish swam leisurely in the air—the judges of this calligraphy and painting contest would be these lively "literary fish."

These are not ordinary objects, but rather spirits born from ancient books and paintings, nurtured over time. They are sentient and can sense the universe; they are called "literary fish" or "book-turning fish."

[A truly learned scholar in the mortal world, if his family has a long tradition of scholarship, might even nurture such a magical cuttlefish within his library.]

Therefore, among cultivators in the cultivation world who cherish this item, it is considered a treasure.

[These fish are drawn to the atmosphere of literature and art. Whenever a painting is completed, these fish sense its inherent spirit and artistic conception, thus determining its quality.]

[A thousand book-turning fish swim gracefully; the painting that attracts the most book-turning fish will be the winner.]

In the arts of calligraphy and painting, there is a saying: "In literature, there is no first place; in martial arts, there is no second."

People have different aesthetic tastes: some love the serene beauty of landscapes, some appreciate the lifelike depiction of figures, some admire the exquisite detail of meticulous brushwork and the vividness of birds and animals, while others pursue a transcendent spirit and a sense of meaning preceding form.

Since preferences are not fixed, it's inherently difficult to distinguish between them. Furthermore, disciples from different lineages will inevitably protect their fellow disciples; if judged by others, it would be difficult to achieve fairness.

Therefore, this time, taking the "literati" as a mirror, we choose the one with the most superior spiritual charm—because it connects with heaven and earth, is without selfish thoughts, and can discern true intentions.

It is said that these thousand spirit fish were a prized possession bestowed upon the hall master, rarely shown to others, but brought out today specifically for the calligraphy and painting competition.

The fish float leisurely in the air, their forms like ink wash paintings, varying in size and shape. Ancient characters sometimes appear on their bodies, sometimes transforming into seal script or clerical script; their graceful movements exude an elegant and ancient charm, captivating the eye.

The number of disciples who came to watch this match was actually greater than in any previous competition.

Unlike the profound mysteries of battle formations, calligraphy and painting are appreciated by all, regardless of their elegance or accessibility. Everyone can admire their beauty and charm, thus attracting many disciples to come and observe.

The arena was already crowded with people, all eagerly anticipating witnessing the extraordinary spectacle of a thousand fish judging paintings.

[From the Xiaoqingfeng lineage, Nie Qingzhu, Elder Nian, Qi Ling, Lü Qingyu, and others were all present, awaiting the start of the event.]

Many disciples from other branches also came, making the scene even more bustling than usual. Although the arena was spacious, extra seats were temporarily added to accommodate the influx of spectators.

Even Feng Qingge from Yaohua Peak and the chief disciples of each branch were present.

The one presiding over this grand competition is Duanmu Xiwei, the head of the Reward Hall, one of the three halls of Fangcun Mountain. Her cultivation has reached the Golden Core stage of the Great Dao, and she has also survived the Twenty-Nine Heavenly Tribulations. Her foundation is profound, and she enjoys extremely high prestige within the sect.

The Hall of Rewards manages all affairs related to the cultivation resources, distribution of elixirs, and allocation of magical artifacts for the disciples of the eighteen lineages, wielding considerable power and responsibility. Although Hall Master Duanmu is only a little over two hundred years old, he possesses a beautiful appearance, a dignified and generous demeanor, and is fair in his dealings, earning him the respect of all the lineages.

She once had a Daoist partner who was skilled in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting, but due to his low cultivation level, he died young. Since then, she has remained single, devoting herself entirely to the affairs of her sect.

There are also rumors within the sect that the current sect leader harbors feelings of admiration for her, but these are deep-seated memories and are only discussed in jest.

Duanmu Xiwei stood gracefully on the main arena, her gaze sweeping over the ninety disciples already seated below, and she nodded slightly.

The voice, like a clear spring, resonated in everyone's ears.

"The deadline is four hours. Any work not completed within this timeframe will be considered invalid."

"There are no restrictions on subject matter or style; you can do as you please."

【"--start!"】

[As soon as the words were spoken, many disciples picked up their brushes, dipped them in ink, and in an instant, rays of spiritual light emanated from the various arenas.]

Qin Shi, Yuan Shujian, and Chen Yao gathered together. Qin Shi spoke first: "Who do you think will win this competition?"

Chen Yao gently shook her head and said, "That's hard to say. Calligraphy and painting are ultimately different from magic; they are mundane skills. Even those who cultivate various arts in the mountains rarely delve into these kinds of things, so it's really difficult to predict."

"Moreover, judging the quality of fish based on their spiritual qualities is even more mysterious and unpredictable."

Qin Shi nodded in agreement. "That's right. Perhaps the one who stands out today is none other than a fellow disciple who hasn't shown his true talent. I only know that Junior Brother Yang Chen seems to be quite skilled in calligraphy and painting."

He turned to Yuan Shujian and asked, "Senior Brother Yuan, what do you think?"

Yuan Shujian pondered for a moment, then shook his head.

His gaze, however, was fixed on a young man on one side of the arena.

Kosen from Xiaoqingfeng was also paying close attention to Zhou Jing, but his eyes were full of mockery.

He thought to himself, "Today's calligraphy and painting competition is for everyone to see, unlike the battle formation contest. I'll see how you, Zhou Jing, win in front of everyone today."

[Cosen also inquired about the other members of Xiao Qingfeng's group, but none of them had ever seen Zhou Jing paint.]

[It seems the artist's skills are lacking, like trying to put a donkey on a millstone.]

[Nie Qingzhu's bright eyes also frequently glanced in your direction, but the ink marks on the arena were yet to appear, making it difficult to discern anything; one could only wait patiently for the painting to be completed.]

You are not in a hurry; you slowly spread out the drawing paper and lightly dip your brush in ink.

The image I desire to paint is already clear in my mind.

[I had two drafts in mind. One was of the illusory Qingyu Daoist I encountered—the legendary Lord of Luo Feng, the master of the Six Paths of Reincarnation, the "Emperor of Immortality."]

[And then there's that mysterious woman in white you brushed past on your way up and down the mountain.]

(End of this chapter)