Absolute Destiny Game.

Chapter 525 A Knight's Journey, Two Lifetimes
In the days that followed, Xiao Jie, like a seedling that had been parched for a long time and then received rain, greedily absorbed the nourishment of martial arts.

Since Xiao Jie had already mastered the essence of swordsmanship, the old man—whose Taoist name was "Xuanjizi"—did not teach him any new sword techniques. Instead, he shifted his focus to the foundation of internal energy cultivation. He taught Xiao Jie a set of internal energy cultivation techniques called "Ruyi Xinfa" (Ruyi Heart Method).

To be fair, the "Ruyi Heart Sutra" itself can only be considered moderate and balanced, not a peerless divine skill. However, its significance to Xiao Jie far exceeds its rank itself!
This set of mental techniques was like a key to unlock a treasure trove, finally allowing him to understand the true method of internal energy cultivation.

Xuanjizi explained to him in a simple and easy-to-understand way the routes of the twelve meridians and the eight extraordinary meridians, the location and function of the acupoints throughout the body, the mystery of the opening and closing of the Qi gates, and the method of condensing the Qi in the Dantian... These martial arts foundations, which originally only existed in game data or vague concepts, became incredibly clear and tangible at this moment.

After learning a set of theoretical knowledge, I repeatedly practiced the exercises under the guidance of my master.

Xiao Jie finally understood the method of cultivating internal energy.

At this point, he was finally able to put into practice those exquisite internal energy cultivation methods that he remembered but could not practice due to a lack of theoretical foundation!

Especially his self-created peerless divine skill, "Tiger Roar and Dragon Chant Divine Skill"!
After months of arduous practice and repeated research, Xiao Jie, with his profound understanding of the essence of the technique and extraordinary perseverance, finally mastered the "Tiger Roar and Dragon Chant Divine Skill" to a minor level. Within his dantian, his internal energy surged like a mighty river, powerful and condensed. When circulating through his body, the sounds of wind and thunder echoed faintly between his internal organs, and his muscles and bones were strengthened accordingly. Every movement he made was full of power.

The only pity is that the Tiger Roar and Dragon Cry Divine Skill, which is paired with the Tiger Roar and Dragon Cry technique, had to be abandoned because Xiao Jie was unable to speak.

Fortunately, in terms of internal energy alone, this technique is still incredibly powerful.

At the same time, Xuanji Zi did not slack off in refining Xiao Jie's swordsmanship. This discerning master could always pinpoint the subtle errors and inconsistencies in Xiao Jie's swordsmanship practice.

Perhaps the angle of force was slightly off, or the footwork and sword movements were not smoothly connected, or the breath was slightly sluggish during the transition between moves.

Xiao Jie already possessed the vision of a master swordsman, but lacked experience in physical refinement. Under Xuanji Zi's precise guidance, he was like a pearl having its dust brushed away, understanding everything instantly and progressing by leaps and bounds. His already proficient swordsmanship was constantly corrected and honed in the details, becoming increasingly smooth and unimpeded, and its power multiplied.

Day after day, under his master's careful guidance, Xiao Jie's internal strength grew increasingly profound and refined, and his swordsmanship improved by leaps and bounds, reaching a state of perfection. The morning and evening mists in the valley, the gentle breeze and drifting clouds by the stream, all witnessed his tireless and arduous training, sweating profusely.

Over the course of three years, Xiao Jie's internal energy cultivation and swordsmanship had reached an astonishing level.

The day was sunny and breezy.

Xiao Jie stood alone by the babbling brook, closed his eyes, concentrated, adjusted his breathing, and circulated his internal energy.

His powerful and pure internal energy, like a dragon gathering its strength, surged ceaselessly along specific meridians, ready to be unleashed. Suddenly, his eyes snapped open, flashing with lightning speed! The ordinary steel saber in his hand emitted a clear, resonant hum, as if echoing its master's boiling battle intent! His entire aura instantly soared, his robes fluttering even without wind!

Ultimate Technique - Sweeping Away the Clouds!
Xiao Jie suddenly leaped into the air, spinning like a top, and swung his long sword! In an instant, the internal force contained in the blade transformed into a terrifying tornado that spun rapidly, drawing in the surrounding air currents!
The fierce and unparalleled sword energy raged and swept across the ground, stirring up countless fallen leaves and pebbles. With the violent momentum of the sword, it spun and cut wildly, making a "hissing" sound as it tore through the air!

A chilling aura of sword intent spread out, forcibly pulling even the calm stream water, causing the surface to cave in and form rapidly spinning whirlpools!

This was the first sword technique he mastered in the game—Wind Sweeps Away Clouds!
Since entering this illusory realm, he has never seen anyone use the [Profound Technique]. Xiao Jie speculates that the Profound Technique is likely a product of the game. In the real world of Kyushu, there are either no people who can use it, or they are extremely rare.

Since mastering his inner strength, he has been trying to replicate the ultimate move in the game, and now he has finally succeeded.

Moreover, the power of such a skill in real life is even more terrifying than in the game!
Once he finished his attack, the sword's momentum suddenly dissipated, and the shredded leaves scattered like dark green raindrops. The eddies in the stream gradually subsided, leaving only a mess on the bank.

Xiao Jie let out a long breath, looking down at the still trembling and humming steel blade in his hand. A long-lost sense of satisfaction and pride welled up in his heart. If he were to face such an attack again, with his current cultivation level, he would surely ensure they never returned!

With the power of this single move, "Wind and Cloud," even dozens or hundreds of people could be wiped out in a single strike.

"Good! Good! Good!" Xuanji Zi had quietly appeared not far away, clapping his hands and laughing, his eyes filled with undisguised satisfaction and admiration. "Sui Feng! Your move 'Wind Sweeps Away Clouds' is truly amazing. I never thought that a mortal sword technique could be trained to such power. Even demons and monsters would probably have to give way if they encountered it."

The sword intent is so powerful that it can even draw upon the surrounding天地 (heaven and earth) to follow its lead, its power is astonishing! Given time, you will surely become a grandmaster of swordsmanship!

The old man was full of praise, but his joy quickly turned into a long sigh, his tone filled with deep regret: "What a pity... what a pity that you suffer from muteness and cannot speak. Otherwise, with your current skill in swordsmanship and foundation in internal energy, you should have participated in this year's 'Transcendent Conference' held at 'Qingyun Palace', to compete with the top talents of the younger generation and make a name for yourself! Perhaps... you might even have the opportunity to be favored by 'Tianxuan Zhenren' and glimpse a trace of the true essence of Xuanmen Daoist methods."

Qingyun Palace! Tianxuan Zhenren!

Xiao Jie's heart skipped a beat. The profound immortal technique that Cang Qiusheng had used back then originated from Qingyun Palace! That's right, this world was originally the Nine Provinces World from thousands of years ago, so the ancient Qingyun Palace naturally stood firm.

An even more astonishing thought churned in his mind: if he learned immortal arts and Taoist techniques in this illusory realm… could he bring them back to the real world?!

At least he should be able to grasp the secrets of martial arts; he learned and mastered the cultivation methods of internal energy techniques bit by bit.

Xiao Jie was very confident that once he returned to reality, he could compile the principles of internal energy cultivation into a book and even teach them to ordinary people who were not players.

If I could attend this extraordinary conference...

It's a pity I can't speak.

Xiao Jie hurriedly gestured to Xuanji Zi. Over the years, his master and he had developed a tacit understanding, and Xuanji Zi immediately understood what he meant.

However, Xuanjizi shook his head and said, "The Extraordinary Tournament is held once every ten years. At that time, all major sects will send people to participate, compete and practice martial arts, and be tested."

The Celestial Mystery Master will select the most outstanding individuals from among them and bestow upon them magical artifacts and divine weapons to slay demons and monsters.

They would also select suitable individuals from among the young talents to teach them Taoist arts.

"With your talent, if you had gone, you could have at least obtained one or two divine weapons or magical artifacts, and might even have gained the favor of a True Person, perhaps even acquiring cultivation techniques. However, since you can't even speak, True Person Tianxuan certainly wouldn't accept you. Each sect can only send one person to this Extraordinary Assembly, so such an opportunity cannot be given to you."

"But it's strange, I've examined your pulse and physical signs, and there's no illness afflicting you. Is your muteness really incurable? Why don't you try a little harder and see if you can speak the truth? If you can speak, I'll send you this time."

Xiao Jie sighed. This guy was trying to lure him with immortal techniques and magic, just like the black-clad swordsman he encountered in the village.

“Master,” a slightly lazy voice rang out, and the Drunken Sword Immortal appeared out of nowhere, looking resentful. “Didn’t you say that the spot for this Extraordinary Tournament would be given to your disciple? Why did you give it to this mute again?”

"Hmph!" Xuanjizi's face darkened, and he glared at him irritably. "Where have you been causing trouble again? Every time you leave the valley, you always cause a few mishaps. Can't you learn from your senior and junior brothers and calm down to improve your martial arts?" He pointed to Xiao Jie, who was standing silently to the side with a deep and composed aura.

While the Sword Immortal repeatedly replied "Yes, yes, yes," a fleeting look of undisguised contempt and disdain crossed his eyes as he glanced at Xiao Jie.

Xiao Jie ignored this, but secretly felt no liking for his second senior brother. While the real-life Drunken Sword Immortal was also dissolute, he at least knew right from wrong and had a sense of propriety. This man before him, however, was a complete and utter troublemaker who knew no bounds.

Over the past three years, the two have gradually become familiar with each other, but their relationship has never been very harmonious.

Seeing the Sword Immortal's attitude, Xuanji Zi knew he hadn't truly listened, so he could only shake his head helplessly and say earnestly, "Never mind. You must make the most of this Extraordinary Gathering. If you can encounter a celestial opportunity and be chosen by True Person Tianxuan or any elder of Qingyun Palace, it might be the greatest fortune of your life."

"I, your master, have devoted my entire life to pushing martial arts to its pinnacle, yet human strength has its limits, and there seems to be an insurmountable barrier ahead. Perhaps only the profound teachings of the esoteric school can help you glimpse a higher realm and travel further."

"Disciple understands!" The Drunken Sword Immortal answered readily this time.

“You are unruly and impulsive. Although most of the people you have killed are villains, there are also some who did not deserve to die. With such behavior, you should not have been allowed to represent your sect at such a grand event.”

Xuanjizi stared sternly at him, "It's a pity your junior brother has some physical limitations..." He glanced at the silent Xiao Jie and sighed, "Otherwise, such an opportunity would never have fallen to you! This time, you must be careful with your words and actions and restrain your temper! If you continue to be unrestrained and cause a great disaster, your master will not let you off lightly!"

"Master, rest assured! Your disciple will definitely repent and never cause trouble again!" The Drunken Sword Immortal patted his chest and made a promise. However, when he turned around and his gaze swept over Xiao Jie again, there was a clear hint of jealousy and resentment in the depths of his eyes, as if he had been compared and looked down upon.

Xuanjizi's gaze finally settled on Xiao Jie, and her tone softened: "As for you, Suifeng. Your swordsmanship and internal strength have already reached a certain level. It's time for you to go down the mountain and gain some experience. Remember my teachings: be upright, distinguish right from wrong, punish the strong and help the weak, and never use your skills to bully others, lest you tarnish the name of your master, 'Xuanji'."

Xiao Jie, with a solemn expression, bowed deeply to Xuanji Zi, performing a dignified disciple's salute.

Over the next ten years, Xiao Jie embarked on his adventurous life in the martial world. Although his master said that his internal strength and swordsmanship were only at a 'minor level', when Xiao Jie truly stepped into the martial world, he discovered that he had few rivals in the entire land.

At first, he was somewhat cautious, but gradually he completely integrated into the world of martial arts.

In the years that followed, Xiao Jie roamed the martial world under the name "Silent Mad Blade." His unparalleled martial arts skills and swift blade became a nightmare for villains. He was elusive, targeting local bullies and bandits, rescuing the innocent, punishing evil and promoting good, leaving behind many silent yet resounding acts of chivalry in the martial world.

Even minor demons and monsters encountered occasionally are slain along with them.

The so-called carefree life in the martial arts world is truly unrestrained.

Although this world has many supernatural elements, it is generally peaceful. The terrifying legends of mountain spirits and monsters usually only appear in some remote and desolate places, and ordinary martial arts practitioners are no match for him.

If this experience were written in detail, it could probably be a novel of millions of words...

However, for Xiao Jie, who had lived two lives, it was merely a memorable life experience.

It has to be said that this immersive gaming experience, where you can directly experience the adventures and chivalry of the martial arts world, is much more enjoyable than sitting in front of a computer with a mouse and keyboard.

On this day, he single-handedly wiped out a notorious mountain stronghold and rescued a young woman who had been kidnapped from the den of thieves. After accomplishing his task, he left without a word, intending to safely return the woman to her home and then, as in previous years, embark on his journey back to the valley where his master lived in seclusion.

That night, they stayed at a simple country inn. In the stillness of the night, there was a gentle knock on the door. Xiao Jie opened it, and there stood the woman he had rescued during the day. Her head was bowed, her cheeks flushed, and her eyes held a mixture of timidity and determination. Seeing Xiao Jie open the door, she stepped gracefully inside and, without a word, slowly removed her outer garment.

Xiao Jie was not surprised at all; he simply looked at the beautiful woman in front of him with a hint of appreciation.

Her features were truly exquisite, with delicate eyebrows like distant mountains, and a pair of bright, clear eyes that seemed both shy and timid.

Her nose was delicate and straight, her lips were as red as if they contained cinnabar, and her pearly teeth were slightly visible.

Her body was exquisite, her skin smooth and translucent, gleaming with a warm glow in the dim candlelight. A light veil was half-undone, revealing her fragrant shoulders and full, firm breasts, further accentuating her graceful figure and alluring demeanor. Every smile and gesture exuded natural charm.

Even someone as experienced as Xiao Jie, who had weathered many storms, couldn't help but feel a surge of emotion upon seeing this scene, and his breath hitched slightly.

A thought immediately popped into my head—damn, here we go again…

The reason I have this thought is because I've encountered this situation countless times over the years.

I was very excited at first, but I gradually calmed down later. As for the reason—

“My benefactor…” the woman’s voice was barely audible, trembling, “I am but a humble woman, with no way to repay your life-saving grace. I can only… I can only offer my pure body to serve you in bed.”

She raised her watery eyes, puffed out her proud chest, and said with a pleading tone, "But...but I come from a respectable family, and my purity must not be defiled. I humbly request that Your Excellency announce my name, so that I...may have something to hold onto in my heart."

Xiao Jie stood silently, his eyes filled with complex emotions. Sure enough… it was the same old routine.

Every time someone throws themselves at me, I have to force them to speak. If they don't speak, I can only look at them, not touch them.

Over time, Xiao Jie's mindset became as calm as an old monk in meditation.

The woman waited for a long time, but seeing no response from Xiao Jie, the hope in her eyes gradually dimmed, turning into desolation and embarrassment. She forced back her tears, her voice choked with sobs: "My benefactor... is it because you fear I will pester you in the future? Fine... if my benefactor looks down on me so much..." She bent down to pick up her clothes from the ground, silently putting them back on one by one, her movements stiff with heartbreak, "Just pretend... I never came tonight." With that, she covered her face, turned, and staggered away, disappearing into the darkness of the corridor outside.

Xiao Jie stared at the empty doorway and sighed inwardly. What a pity… However, he had already experienced countless similar “tests” over the years. The temptations of beauty, wealth, and power were endless, but for Xiao Jie, who had endured torture and interrogation, these tests were nothing more than trifles.

He composed himself, turned and went back to his room, and remained calm.

The next day, Xiao Jie, as instructed, safely escorted the woman home. Before parting, the woman gazed at him deeply, her eyes filled with complex and unfathomable emotions. Finally, she gave a graceful bow, turned, and closed the door. Xiao Jie calculated the days; the end of the year was approaching. For the past few years, every New Year's Eve, no matter where he was, he would always rush back to that secluded valley to reunite with his master, Xuanji Zi. Firstly, to report on his chivalrous deeds throughout the year; secondly, to listen to his master's teachings and feel that rare, almost familial warmth.

The eldest brother would occasionally come back, but the second brother hadn't been seen for many years.

Eager to return home, Xiao Jie spurred his horse and galloped away. In just a few days, the familiar outline of the valley, surrounded by verdant mountains, came into view once again.

At the mouth of the valley, before the clear stream, he reined in his horse and dismounted.

He let the horse lower its head to drink. He then walked to the water's edge and leaned down to look at its reflection in the babbling brook.

The man reflected in the water appeared to be around twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old, in the prime of his life. His face was sharply defined, with sword-like eyebrows that slanted upwards towards his temples. Years of hardship had etched some marks on his brows, but they only added to his composure. He wore a faded indigo-blue outfit, covered by a worn-out black leather armor.

Standing there, he was as imposing as a mountain, and though he did not speak, a powerful and dignified aura of a chivalrous hero was already evident.

Looking at his reflection in the water, a hint of emotion flashed in Xiao Jie's eyes. Ten years... Time really flies in this life of the martial world.

He was probably around that age in real life. In other words, the time he spent in this illusory realm was longer than his entire life in reality.

Looking back on all those past events now, it feels like a lifetime ago, even unreal.

Cars, computers, apartment buildings... everything in my memory has become somewhat blurry.

As for his teammates, aside from their names and some characteristics, he couldn't remember them at all.

He was secretly worried that after a few decades, he might forget all the things that happened in reality.

However, I have already lived for over thirty years, and I am almost halfway to my target age. I just need to persevere a little longer.

Teammates...resurrected...become immortals...never forget.

He murmured to himself, but when he looked up at the valley ahead, his worries about the past were immediately replaced by a joy of returning home.

Indeed, the thatched huts and bamboo houses in this valley were like home to him.

His eagerness to return home made him stop there. He lightly touched the blue stone on the bank with his toes, and his body rose up like a roc, skimming across the stream and landing gracefully in the quiet valley.

However, the moment his feet touched the ground, Xiao Jie's eyes froze, as if struck by lightning!
(Master—!)

The usually dignified and vigorous Xuanji Zi was now lying on the cold mud, his face ashen, his breath faint, and dark red bloodstains at the corner of his mouth.
A sharp, visceral pain instantly gripped Xiao Jie's heart! This secluded valley was the harbor for his wandering soul; and Xuanji Zi was a strict teacher, a loving father, and, more importantly, his most real bond in this illusory world! Ten years of companionship, every little detail, had long been ingrained in his very being!

He rushed to the old man's side like an arrow, kneeling heavily on both knees, his hands trembling as he embraced his master. He opened his mouth wide, letting out a hoarse, hissing sound, but no words came out; only endless grief, anger, and anxiety churned within him!

Seemingly sensing his arrival, Xuanji Zi miraculously opened a slit in her eyes, her cloudy gaze struggling to focus on Xiao Jie's face. With her last bit of strength, she uttered a few words in broken sentences: "Sui... Feng... your master... didn't... take you in the wrong... be careful... you... second..." Before she could finish saying "senior brother," the light in her eyes went out like a candle in the wind, and her head tilted weakly to one side.

Master—!!!
Xiao Jie felt a chilling despair freeze over his entire body, and the whole world seemed to lose its color.

He tried to shout, opened his mouth, but couldn't make a sound.

For a moment, he couldn't tell whether he was holding back his words or had simply forgotten how to speak.

It's all fake! It's all fake! He kept telling himself, trying to build a dam of reason to resist the overwhelming, overwhelming grief. However, the pain was so sharp and clear, like cold steel needles piercing deep into his soul, impossible to hide!
"Hahahaha! Kid, you didn't expect that, did you? I'm back!" A voice full of ferocity and madness suddenly rang out, breaking the dead silence! Xiao Jie looked up sharply and saw that his second senior brother, the Drunken Sword Immortal, had appeared not far away at some point, with a twisted and gleeful grin on his face!

He carried a gourd of wine in one hand and a longsword dripping with thick blood in the other. The blade was surrounded by an eerie crimson halo, emanating an ominous aura that sent chills down one's spine!
(End of this chapter)