The Heavens: Man Covers the Heavens, Refines Treasures to Become an Emperor

"Let's forge a Snowfall Battle Blade tonight."

Jiang Xuan muttered to himself, his fingers lightly tracing the cold iron ore on the table.

He formed hand seals, and spiritual energy flowed within his body.

As he moved, the ore gradually floated up and began to soften and deform under the influence of spiritual energy.

Crafting artifacts is a delicate art, requiring extremely high concentration and precise control over spiritual energy. For ordinary cultivators at the Gang Realm, crafting a low-grade human-level spiritual artifact is already considered quite good, but Jiang Xuan is different.

In his mind's eye, the mysterious "Gate to Heaven" stood tall, emitting a faint light.

Whenever Jiang Xuan was refining a weapon, this door would vibrate, as if guiding the flow of his spiritual energy.

The ore gradually melted in the spiritual fire, impurities were removed bit by bit, leaving only the purest molten metal.

Jiang Xuan's technique was skillful and precise; every movement was just right, without a single unnecessary action.

"Condensation!"

With a low shout, the molten metal began to take shape, gradually forming the prototype of a battle sword. The blade was long and slender, slightly curved, with a thick back and a blade as thin as a cicada's wing.

The most crucial step is here: inscribing the spirit runes.

This is the core step in determining the quality of a magical artifact.

Jiang Xuan gathered a wisp of spiritual light at his fingertips and began to trace intricate patterns on the blade.

His movements were fluid and graceful, each line containing a specific fluctuation of spiritual energy. The complex lines that ordinary spirit pattern masters needed to practice repeatedly to master were as natural as breathing in his hands.

"Buzz."

As the last stroke was made, the entire battle blade suddenly emitted a clear sound, and the spiritual patterns flowing on the blade instantly lit up before quickly disappearing.

A sharp aura emanated from the blade, and the surrounding temperature seemed to drop slightly.

"It's done."

Jiang Xuan let out a soft sigh of relief and picked up the battle sword to examine it carefully.

The blade was pure white, with a faint, cold light shimmering around it. Its edge was incredibly sharp, and with a single swing, it left a faint white mark in the air.

This is a mid-grade human-level Snowfall Battle Blade, which, according to market prices, can sell for at least three gold coins.

But Jiang Xuan knew that the power of the battle sword he had forged far exceeded that of similar products on the market.

This is not only because of his superb skills, but also because of the special blessing brought by the "gate to heaven" in his sea of ​​consciousness.

"I'll go to Shidingzhai tomorrow to ask about the prices."

Jiang Xuan put the battle sword into his storage bag and rubbed his slightly sore temples.

Refining the weapon had consumed a lot of his spiritual energy, but now was not the time to rest.

He sat cross-legged on the bed and began to circulate the [Minor Underworld Divine Art].

This secret method for cultivating divine sense is extremely profound, and ordinary cultivators would find it difficult to even begin to learn it in their entire lives, but it seemed to be tailor-made for Jiang Xuan.

As the cultivation technique circulated, eighteen soul stars lit up in his sea of ​​consciousness one after another, emitting a dazzling light.

Each soul star represents a portion of his divine sense's power. Ordinary cultivators at the Gang Realm are considered quite fortunate if they can light up three to five soul stars, but Jiang Xuan has lit up a full eighteen, giving him a perception range far exceeding that of other cultivators at the same level.

His divine sense spread like ripples, covering the entire courtyard and even extending into the street.

He could "see" Xue Jin's even breathing in the corner of the wall, "hear" the family's hushed conversation in the next courtyard, and even "sense" the footsteps of the patrolling guards several streets away.

This all-around perception ability will be a huge advantage in combat.

After completing the cultivation of the [Minor Netherworld Divine Technique], Jiang Xuan then switched to activating the [Dongxuan Devouring Wilderness Scripture].

This is his main cultivation technique, specifically designed to refine spiritual energy.

As the cultivation technique was activated, the spiritual energy pool within his dantian began to rotate.

This is no ordinary pool of spiritual energy; rather, it is a unique structure. Within it, spiritual energy is repeatedly refined and compressed, ultimately becoming incomparably pure.

This is why the spiritual energy released by Jiang Xuan was far more powerful than that of other cultivators at the same level.

This is also the source of his confidence in being able to take on challenges beyond his level.

He took out six "Azure Jade Qi-Containing Pills" and swallowed them in one gulp. The pills dissolved immediately upon entering his stomach, transforming into surging spiritual energy that flowed into the Storm Millstone.

Fine beads of sweat appeared on Jiang Xuan's forehead, and his spiritual energy surged like a river, circulating repeatedly in his meridians.

An hour later, the medicinal effects wore off, and Jiang Xuan stopped his practice. He had reached his limit for the day; continuing would be more harmful than beneficial.

Lying in bed, Jiang Xuan began to think about his next plan.

Lian Fei's appearance forced him to adjust his original route.

The provincial examination is in three months, and he needs to improve his skills as soon as possible during this period.

"Both the Six-Character Saber Technique and the Heavenly Origin Saber Technique need to be reviewed again."

Jiang Xuan was making plans in his mind.

"After advancing to the Human罡 Realm, the power of these techniques should experience a qualitative leap."

In particular, the [Heavenly Origin Blade Technique] is an extremely domineering blade technique that emphasizes using force to overcome skill, and one force can subdue ten techniques.

Combined with his spiritual energy refined to its peak, its power should not be underestimated.

Thinking of this, Jiang Xuan couldn't help but feel hopeful.

What would it be like if I, with my cultivation at the Human Realm, used these sword techniques?
The next morning, Jiang Xuan had just swallowed the last bite of his steamed bun when Xue Jin's voice came from behind him.

"Hey kid, wait a minute."

Jiang Xuan turned around and saw Xue Jin's golden eyes staring at the Snowfall Battle Blade hanging at his waist. The blade was pure white, with faint blue patterns flowing along the edge; it was the very piece he had just forged the night before.

"Is something wrong?"

Jiang Xuan asked.

Xue Jin took a few steps closer, her nose twitching.

"Did you carve the spirit runes on this knife?"

Jiang Xuan nodded.

"Yes, I just finished it last night."

Snow Gold's pupils suddenly contracted, and its golden fur stood on end.

"Are you a spirit rune master?"

"I guess so."

Jiang Xuan answered casually, his fingers tracing the patterns on the blade.

"I only know a little bit."

Xue Jin suddenly burst into laughter, his laughter filled with disbelief.

"Fur? Kid, do you even know what status a spirit pattern master has in the empire?"

Jiang Xuan shook his head.

He grew up in the mountains and knew very little about worldly affairs.

His snow-gold eyes held a complex light.

"Spirit rune masters are among the most prestigious professions in the empire, highly sought after by all major powers. And you..."

It looked Jiang Xuan up and down.

"They're actually going to have to go out and sell magical artifacts like a peddler?"

Jiang Xuan frowned.

"Otherwise what? I need money to buy cultivation resources."

"stupid!"

Xue Jin cursed without any politeness.

"The Spirit Rune Master Commune is where you should be!"

"The Spirit Rune Master Commune?"

This was the first time Jiang Xuan had heard this name.

SnowGold slapped its forehead with its paw.

"My God, you don't even know this? The Spirit Pattern Masters' Guild is the largest spirit pattern master alliance in the empire, spanning thirty-four provinces. There's a branch in Misty Cloud City."

Jiang Xuan's eyes showed interest.

"Where can I make money?"

"Not only can you make money, but you can also gain status, resources, and connections!"

Xue Jin said excitedly.

"Once you're verified, you can accept quests, exchange for treasures, and enjoy privileges. Why would you need to go around hawking your wares?"

Jiang Xuan pondered for a moment, then hung the Snowfall Battle Blade back up.

"address."

Xue Jin grinned, revealing his sharp teeth.

"I knew you'd be interested. Turn left as you exit, walk along the main street to the central square, and you'll see the most prominent golden building."

In the center of Yanxia City, a magnificent building stands tall.

The entire building is gilded and shines brightly in the sunlight.

The most striking feature is the giant phantom suspended atop the building.

The seven large characters "Spirit Pattern Master Commune of Yanxia City" swirled in the void, emitting faint fluctuations of spiritual energy.

"Phantom Spirit Array."

Jiang Xuan looked up at the line of words, a look of amazement flashing in his eyes.

"What a grand gesture!"

A spirit array of this scale requires a huge amount of spirit stones, which ordinary forces simply cannot afford. It seems Xue Jin was right; the Spirit Pattern Master Commune is indeed very wealthy.

Jiang Xuan straightened his robes and stepped through the gate. The interior space was even more spacious than the exterior, with dark red spirit wood flooring and various spirit artifacts inlaid on the walls as decoration. People moved about in the hall, yet everything was orderly.

"Young master, welcome to the Spirit Pattern Master's Guild." A beautiful maid in a light green dress stepped forward with a professional smile.

"Are you here to buy treasures, post quests, or sell items?"

The maid was in her early twenties, with a beautiful face and a clear, melodious voice.

She subtly observed Jiang Xuan. The boy looked to be no more than sixteen or seventeen years old, dressed simply, but the knife at his waist emanated an unusual spiritual energy fluctuation.

"I'll just take a look around first."

Jiang Xuan looked around and found that the hall was divided into several areas, each with a prominent sign.

The maidservant bowed.

"Okay, I'm Xiaocui, always at your service. Would you like me to show you the layout of the commune?"

Jiang Xuan nodded.

"Thank you for your trouble."

Xiao Cui led Jiang Xuan to the center of the hall and explained, pointing to each area.

"On the left is the Spirit Treasure Zone, displaying various spiritual artifacts, elixirs, and materials; on the right is the Exchange Zone, where you can exchange points or gold coins for rare resources; behind is the Quest Zone, where Spirit Inscription Masters can accept quests and earn rewards."

Jiang Xuan listened and observed at the same time. The Spirit Treasure area was crowded with people, and many cultivators were choosing their favorite items; the exchange area was relatively quiet, but each counter was occupied by a person dressed in fine clothes; the mission area was bustling with activity, and the walls were covered with all kinds of mission scrolls.

What are points?

Jiang Xuan noticed that Xiao Cui mentioned this word several times.

"Ah, this is a unique system of the commune."

Xiao Cui explained.

"Completing guild tasks or contributing items will earn you points. The higher your points, the more privileges you'll enjoy, such as purchase discounts, priority access to higher-level tasks, and entry into special training rooms."

Jiang Xuan seemed to be deep in thought.

This system is ingenious; it incentivizes spirit rune masters to contribute to the commune while also enhancing their sense of belonging.

"What does it take to become a recognized spirit rune master?"

Jiang Xuan suddenly asked.

Xiao Cui paused for a moment, then smiled.

"Young master is too kind. You look..."

"I'm serious."

Jiang Xuan looked directly into her eyes, his gaze calm.

Xiao Cui's smile froze on her face.

She looked at the boy again; his hair was as black as ink, his features were delicate, but his eyes held a maturity beyond his years.

Could the spirit patterns on the knife at his waist be...?
"The authentication area is on the second floor."

Xiao Cui's voice unconsciously lowered a few decibels.

"but."

Thank you.

Before she could finish speaking, Jiang Xuan had already started walking towards the stairs.

Xiao Cui hurriedly followed.

"Young master, certain conditions must be met for certification."

"I know."

Jiang Xuan stepped onto the stairs without looking back.

The second floor was much quieter than the first floor. At the end of the corridor was a carved wooden door with a sign that read "Certification Office".

Jiang Xuan pushed open the door and entered, only to find a long table inside, behind which sat a middle-aged man in gray clothes, who was looking down and flipping through a thick booklet.

Hearing the door open, the man looked up.

His face was ordinary, but his eyes were sharp as an eagle's, and he seemed somewhat surprised when he saw Jiang Xuan.

"Is something wrong?"

The man's voice was deep.

"I'm here to get certified as a Spirit Pattern Master."

Jiang Xuan was straightforward.

The room suddenly fell silent. The gray-clad man's expression froze, and Xiao Cui stood at the door, her hands unconsciously twisting together.

"What did you say?"

The man in gray stood up.

“Say it again.”

"Spirit Pattern Master Certification."

Jiang Xuan repeated himself slowly and deliberately, his tone as calm as if he were discussing the weather.

The man in gray looked Jiang Xuan up and down, his gaze finally settling on his face.

"Child, do you know what it takes to become a spirit rune master?"

"At the Human罡 Realm cultivation level, one can independently refine spirit pattern arrays."

Jiang Xuan answered fluently.

The man in gray gave a cold laugh.

How old are you?

"sixteen."

"A sixteen-year-old at the Human Realm? And he can even refine spirit pattern arrays?"

The man in gray raised his voice a few decibels.

"Kid, do you know how old the youngest spirit rune master in the history of the empire was?"

Jiang Xuan shook his head.

"Twenty years old!"

The man in gray slammed his fist on the table and stood up.

"And that one is a member of the royal family, raised on spiritual herbs since childhood! What do you think a spirit pattern master is? A cabbage sold on the street?"

Jiang Xuan remained unmoved in the face of the man's anger.

"Age has nothing to do with ability."

"What a convenient excuse for being irrelevant!"

The man in gray laughed in anger.

"Xiao Cui, take him to testing room number two. I want to see what tricks this genius has up his sleeve!"

Xiao Cui stepped forward timidly.

"Young master, please follow me."

After leaving the authentication area, Xiao Cui led Jiang Xuan through the long corridor.

She walked much faster than when she came, as if she was eager to get rid of something.

Are you nervous?

Jiang Xuan suddenly asked.

Xiao Cui's body trembled.

No, no.

"What was the examiner's name?"

"Master Mo, Mo Cang."

Xiao Cui answered in a low voice.

"He is a three-star spirit pattern master in the commune, responsible for basic certification."

Jiang Xuan nodded.

"Has he always had such a bad temper?"

Xiao Cui hesitated for a moment.

"Master Mo has a particular aversion to imposters. Last month, someone impersonated a spirit pattern master to cheat people out of resources, but he exposed him on the spot, broke both of his legs, and threw him out."

She secretly glanced at Jiang Xuan and found that the young man's face remained calm, as if he had only heard about ordinary trivial matters.

"Young Master."

Xiao Cui mustered her courage.

"You really are."

You'll know when you get there.

Jiang Xuan interrupted her question.

Xiao Cui dared not say anything more and led Jiang Xuan through the corridor to the second floor of the Spirit Pattern Master Commune.

Pushing open the carved wooden door, a faint scent of sandalwood mixed with the distinctive fishy smell of animal hides wafted out.

Inside the hall, a refined man in an indigo robe was bent over his desk, holding a white jade pipe, from which wisps of smoke rose.

Before him lay a piece of animal hide with a faint blue luster, his fingertips gleaming as he inscribed intricate patterns.

"Master Chu."

Xiao Cui bowed respectfully.

"This young master has come to have his Spirit Pattern Master qualification certified."

Chu Feng didn't even look up; he simply waved his hand, signaling them to wait a moment. (End of Chapter)