Chapter 339: The Floating Demon Realm and the Twin Buddha Sons
Chiguang hadn't expected that his attempt to keep a low profile would be taken seriously by a certain someone.
"It seems I won't be able to stay low-key this time..." A sharp glint flashed in Chiguang's eyes as he thought of the demon figure that his master had mentioned in relation to the Twin Buddha Sons. The fire of battle burned brightly in his gaze.
On the other side, with the selection battle approaching, members of the Flower Appreciation Society, including Yezu and Qingzu, sent word to Li Hao, informing him that they were on their way to Canglan Realm to support him during the battle.
Upon hearing the news, Qingjiu playfully complained, "Is no one coming to see me?"
"You've got your master backing you up. What do you need us for? Qingfeng is the one who's on his own," Yezu responded with a huff.
"Exactly, are we just coming to watch you show off?" Qingzu added bluntly.
Qingjiu, feeling helpless, said, "You all are really playing favorites. It hurts my feelings."
"You still have time to complain? I bet you're already itching for a fight," Qingzu replied.
Qingjiu: ...
When Li Hao learned that Yezu and the others were coming, he sent a message to Zhandan, asking her to help with their reception.
Zhandan reassured Li Hao, telling him to focus on preparing for the battle and not to worry about distractions.
Reflecting on their recent discussions about painting, Zhandan felt that she might have delayed Li Hao a bit. Now, with the battle approaching, she had received news that many of the other prodigies, feeling the pressure, had made breakthroughs just before the fight, which could pose a threat to Li Hao.
As the battle date drew nearer, the Emperor of Canghai also sought out Li Hao, Chiguang, Suyun, and the others, asking if they needed any help—whether it be weapons or divine pills.
Suyun mentioned needing Condensation Pills, while Chiguang declined any assistance. Li Hao, too, said he didn't need anything.
"If you manage to secure a spot in the Canglan Realm's battle roster, you'll receive the incense blessings of the realm. How much you gain will depend on your performance in the battle," the Emperor of Canghai said.
He had high hopes for both Li Hao and Chiguang. Initially, he had placed his bet on Chiguang, confident that he would secure a spot in the top ten, but Li Hao's recent performance had surprised him even more. If both could represent the Canglan Realm, the Canghai Divine Dynasty would receive a double portion of dragon qi!
This dragon qi was a blessing from the Heavenly Dao of the Canglan Realm, and it could solidify the foundation of the Canghai Dynasty. It might even allow a prodigy with the potential to become a saint to emerge from the royal family. If the Emperor absorbed it himself, it would aid in his cultivation toward becoming a Royal Dao Saint.
Saints each followed their own path, such as Sword Saints, Literary Saints, and Buddhist Saints. For an emperor to become a saint, they would need to cultivate the Royal Dao, which required the accumulation of dragon qi.
In the days leading up to the great battle, the three major sacred lands and the dozens of dynasties were abuzz with activity. Even the prodigies who hadn't been selected eagerly anticipated this grand event, the most prestigious battle in the Canglan Realm.
The days passed quickly, and the selection battle was set to take place in the Buddhist Sacred Land.
Ever since the emergence of the Supreme Talents Battle, the locations for the Canglan Realm's selection battles had alternated between the three major sacred lands. This time, it was the Buddhist Sacred Land's turn to host the event, showcasing its grandeur and attracting prodigies from across the dynasties.
Li Hao, Chiguang, and the other top ten candidates from the divine dynasties, accompanied by the royal families, made their way to the Buddhist Sacred Land.
Even from afar, one could see the towering Sacred Peak of the Heavens, bathed in auspicious light and illuminated by the glow of Buddha's radiance, as though the sun had descended upon its summit, transforming into a radiant pearl, emitting endless Buddha light.
As they stepped into the domain of the Buddhist Sacred Land, they could faintly hear the devout chants of Buddhist scriptures.
For the contestants like Li Hao, others who had come to spectate had already pulled strings to arrive a day early, hoping to secure front-row seats for the battle.
At the foot of the Buddhist Sacred Land's mountain, two massive lion-like beasts crouched, emanating the aura of a half-saint. Though they appeared to be golden lions, it was clear to those with sharp eyes that they were ancient demon kings in disguise, concealing their true forms.
Half-saint level Buddhist Beasts guarded the foot of the mountain, while monks along the steps greeted guests with a display of Buddhist light and precious energy.
"So, this is the Buddhist Sacred Land?"
"It's so solemn and majestic. I don't even dare speak loudly."
"Look at all the Buddhist beasts! And there, that's a half-saint level Buddhist beast being used as a mount!"
Voices buzzed with discussion.
At the top of the sacred peak, the vast expanse teemed with forces from all sides, numbering in the millions. Princes, princesses, and young lords from ancient martial families were everywhere, many with illustrious backgrounds. Without such connections, they wouldn't have been able to attend the event in person and would have had to watch from their homes through Realm Stones.
Aside from these influential figures, many prodigies gathered together, forming a mighty force.
At the forefront, towering half-saint monks from the Buddhist sect revealed their majestic forms. Some stood over a hundred meters tall, making them stand out prominently among the millions gathered at the peak.
Their mounts were equally massive and imposing, also at the half-saint level.
There were blue lions, golden-haired howlers, white boars, and peacocks, all radiating auspicious energy. But before they were subdued, these Buddhist beasts had certainly been terrifying demon kings, feared by many.
Above the Buddhist Master Hall, the saint of the Buddhist Sacred Land, Thousand-Life Buddha, sat in solemn majesty. His massive form was as tall as the heavens themselves, easily visible to those standing on the outskirts of the sacred peak. His entire body radiated golden Buddha light, filling the air with auspiciousness.
Thousand-Life Buddha was the master of the Buddhist Sacred Land and had survived the three great calamities. One foot already rested in the True Saint Realm.
It was said that he had reincarnated and cultivated for a thousand lives, breaking through the mysteries of life and death, fame and fortune, honor and disgrace, reaching a state of great transcendence.
In the Canglan Realm, the Buddhist Sacred Land held the highest position of authority, and Thousand-Life Buddha was widely acknowledged as the strongest figure in the Canglan Realm.
Now, with various forces and countless prodigies gathered, all eyes were on the strongest figure of the Canglan Realm. The crowd was filled with reverence and awe.
As the forces converged, Li Hao and the others arrived. He and Chiguang walked among the top ten from the divine dynasties, drawing considerable attention. Both were among the top contenders for securing a spot in the battle.
Shortly after their arrival, a stir swept through the crowd—it was the arrival of the many saints and saintesses from the Sacred Land of the Literary Ancestor.
Li Hao and Chiguang turned to look and saw a group of elegant figures approaching the steps. Both men and women, they all carried an air of scholarly refinement, like wandering literati, as if they were here for leisurely conversation.
Among them, Li Hao spotted familiar figures—Zhandan and Zhao Qingshu.
However, Zhandan was merely in a supporting role, walking quietly toward the back, escorting the group.
At the center walked Zhao Qingshu, alongside nine other young men and women, all exuding the powerful aura of the Dao Law Realm.
Leading them was a scholarly youth, resembling a refined scholar from the mortal world, with an extraordinary yet unassuming appearance. His eyes revealed a calm detachment, as though he had read countless volumes and was no longer surprised by anything the world could offer.
"Is that Lin Shuhai from the Sacred Land of the Literary Ancestor? He looks so ordinary."
"That's called restraint! You wouldn't understand. I heard from a friend in the Sacred Land of the Literary Ancestor that with just three spoken words, he easily defeated many of the Sacred Land's prodigies. Can you imagine that?"
"That's unbelievable!"
Many onlookers focused their attention on the young scholar, their gazes becoming serious.
Chiguang narrowed his eyes. Apart from the Twin Buddha Sons, this prodigy from the Sacred Land of the Literary Ancestor was someone he wanted to test his strength against as well.
Sensing Chiguang's battle intent, Lin Shuhai glanced in his direction. Their gazes met, but Lin Shuhai's expression remained calm. He gave a slight nod, his lips curving into a faint smile.
Chiguang, on the other hand, grinned widely. "These people from the Sacred Land of the Literary Ancestor are certainly polite," he thought to himself.
At the same time, Zhandan, walking behind Lin Shuhai, noticed Li Hao and smiled gently. Her serene and elegant face softened with a slight smile, a sight that caused those around her to pause in admiration. She was a half-saint, as beautiful as a celestial being, exuding a noble and untouchable aura, but her smile in this moment was captivating, leaving onlookers momentarily breathless.
"Yezu and the others have already arrived. Once you're done, I'll introduce you to them," Zhandan said through a voice transmission to Li Hao.
Li Hao nodded in acknowledgment.
As the people from the Sacred Land of the Literary Ancestor took their seats, a commotion soon erupted from near the steps once more.
A group of imposing figures approached, each exuding a sharp, almost overwhelming aura. It was none other than the Bright Moon Son and others from the Sacred Land of the Sword Ancestor.
"The Sword Ancestor's Sacred Land has arrived. Now everyone's here!"
"Who is that saintess? She's beautiful."
"Be careful what you say. That's Elder Yaozu from the Sacred Land of the Sword Ancestor. She was indeed a saintess hundreds of years ago, though."
Li Hao turned to see Yaozu and Lin Qingying, both familiar faces, and smiled.
Noticing Li Hao's gaze, Yaozu and Lin Qingying looked in his direction. Yaozu smiled warmly and nodded toward him.
Li Hao's impressive display of swordsmanship had left a deep impression, and during the recent Battle of the Talents, he had taken first place. Yaozu knew this was the moment Li Hao would truly make a name for himself.
As Lin Qingying saw Li Hao, she couldn't help but think about her own realizations during her recent seclusion, feeling a sense of peace in her heart.
Nearby, Bian Ruxue and the Bright Moon Son, along with others from the Sword Ancestor's Sacred Land, also noticed Li Hao. After all, the seats for Li Hao and the others from the divine dynasties were in a prominent spot, right next to the sacred lands.
The Bright Moon Son's expression darkened as he recalled the information he had gathered upon emerging from seclusion. Li Hao hadn't taken him or anyone else seriously. Did he think that defeating him was enough to claim first place?
Although he was irritated, his eyes flashed with a sharper glint. His recent seclusion had brought him great gains, and he was determined to redeem himself in this battle!
Bian Ruxue and the other saints and saintesses felt little toward Li Hao. They knew him as a sword prodigy, but that was already old news. If they faced him in battle, they would simply avoid his sword's edge.
With the arrival of the Sword Ancestor's Sacred Land, the atmosphere in the venue grew even more intense.
"Look, that's the Buddha Son from the Buddhist Sacred Land!"
"Is that the Twin Buddha Son? I've heard he's mastered six extreme realms—utterly terrifying!"
"It's said that he's been battling his inner demon since childhood. While others fight external foes, he's been fighting himself!"
From the Buddha Hall, ten figures emerged, led by the Buddha Son. Among them were female bodhisattvas, all radiating an aura of tranquility and peace, seemingly unaffected by the chaos of the outside world.
At the front stood a young Buddha Son, wearing black and white robes. One of his eyes was white, giving him a strange and eerie appearance.
As he stepped forward, the previously noisy sacred peak quieted down considerably. Many of the spectators grew serious. This was the Twin Buddha Son, the most famous among the prodigies of the three great sacred lands. Aside from mastering the six extreme realms, he also possessed various divine abilities. It was rumored that he was the reincarnation of a Buddhist saint, seeking to break through to the next stage of enlightenment.
Standing beside Li Hao, Chiguang's expression grew solemn.
He could vaguely sense a terrifying demon figure behind the Twin Buddha Son. Though it was faint, simply standing there made it impossible for him to lock his gaze on the figure.
Lin Shuhai from the Sacred Land of the Literary Ancestor also glanced in the Buddha Son's direction. His eyes flickered slightly, but his expression remained unchanged.
"This is the Twin Buddha Son? How terrifying. I've heard that he consumed his own twin while still in the womb, becoming a Buddha-Demon dual body. Truly fearsome."
Li Qingyi's eyes were filled with trepidation as she glanced at the Twin Buddha Son. It seemed as though his white pupils reflected her image, causing a chill to run down her spine, and she dared not look any longer.
"I've heard from my master that some powerful beings begin their grand schemes from the womb. It's not purely natural talent but a result of a saint's intervention," Zhao Qingshu remarked with a serious expression.
"We won't stand a chance, but I wonder if Senior Brother Lin Shuhai will be able to defeat him."
They turned their gaze toward Lin Shuhai. Despite his scholarly and unassuming demeanor, like a refined scholar from the mortal world, they knew just how terrifyingly powerful he could be in battle.
If he could win this battle, he would surely receive a wealth of incense offerings. After all, this battle was being watched by countless dynasties across the Canglan Realm, attracting widespread admiration and earning the victor their devotion and incense.
"This feels somewhat familiar…" Li Hao thought, his eyes narrowing as he looked at the Twin Buddha Son. He remembered the Buddhist master he had previously slain, who also practiced the dual cultivation of Buddha and Demon. For a Buddhist cultivator, transcending worldly karma was difficult, but conquering the demons within was even harder. It was a hurdle every Buddhist practitioner had to face.
As humans, everyone carried inner demons, and Buddhist cultivation aimed at transcendence required one to either subdue or suppress these inner demons.
Li Hao withdrew his gaze and turned toward the half-saints of the Buddhist Sect, as well as the Thousand-Life Buddha.
He could vaguely sense that what was being displayed was not the Buddha's true body but a projected avatar.
Even so, the avatar radiated like the blazing sun, compelling one to bow in reverence.
"This is the strongest Three-Calamity Saint below the True Saint level?" Li Hao mused.
Over the past few days, Li Hao had learned about the Three Stages of a Saint, each corresponding to a calamity. Every calamity a saint overcame significantly boosted their strength. However, each calamity was a perilous trial.
Throughout history, more saints had perished under these calamities than those who had survived.
Once a saint overcame all three calamities, their name would be immortalized. They could live to the end of their natural lifespan, surviving through countless epochs, as long as they didn't seek death.
Now that all the participants had gathered, two enormous vortexes suddenly appeared in the sky, from which two colossal figures emerged, their forms as towering as the heavens themselves. They were the Sword Saint and the Literary Saint.
Li Hao had seen the Sword Saint before and instantly recognized that what was appearing now was merely an avatar, much like the one that had hunted him before, the Void Saint's Avatar.
This was his first time seeing the Literary Saint. The saint looked like a great Confucian scholar, surrounded by auspicious energy. Within the void around him, images of a jade sea and bamboo forest materialized, gently swayed by a serene breeze. The scene was tranquil and pure.
Next to the Literary Saint, the light twisted into sword shadows, creating the appearance of a Sword Domain around the Sword Saint.
Three great saints had gathered to witness the grand battle of the Canglan Realm's talents. This sight filled the hearts of the young prodigies with both excitement and envy.
Unfortunately, most of them wouldn't have the chance to step onto the stage and display their skills. If they could present themselves before the saints and earn their favor, it would be a chance to soar to new heights!
As the three saints' avatars descended, Thousand-Life Buddha, seated on a radiant golden lotus platform in the sky above the Buddha Hall, wore a gentle expression. He exchanged glances with the Literary Saint and Sword Saint, both of whom nodded to him in acknowledgment.
There were no unnecessary pleasantries exchanged; they were old acquaintances. Thousand-Life Buddha then began to calmly explain the rules of the battle.
There were forty participants in total, drawn from the three great sacred lands and the scattered elites of the divine dynasties. The first round wouldn't involve direct combat but rather a race to collect spirit pearls.
Thousand-Life Buddha raised his hand, and a wisp of Buddha light, like a golden flame, floated out. In the center of the plaza, it ignited a glowing portal in the void.
Beyond the portal lay a forbidden realm, where demons and monsters lurked.
"These are spirit pearls, scattered throughout the Floating Demon Realm. The first twenty participants to return with a pearl will advance, while the rest will be eliminated," Thousand-Life Buddha explained calmly.
These rules had already been leaked by certain powerful factions, and Li Hao, among others, had known about them in advance.
Li Hao had been secretly informed by Zhandan, so he wasn't surprised. The other sacred land disciples also remained composed, having already learned of the rules.
However, a few of the scattered elites, like Suyun, appeared slightly startled upon hearing the rules, indicating that the forces behind them hadn't been strong enough to uncover the information ahead of time.
"To prevent anyone from harvesting multiple spirit pearls at once, only one will be released at a time. The Literary Saint and Sword Saint will both witness the process. Each pearl will be handed randomly to a demon within the Floating Demon Realm," Thousand-Life Buddha continued.
"Whoever can slay the demon and retrieve the spirit pearl the fastest will advance."
As he spoke, the silver-white spirit pearl in his hand transformed into a stream of light and vanished into the void portal.
Li Hao realized that this was essentially a demon-slaying competition.
As the spirit pearl disappeared, the first contestant was randomly selected, and it was none other than the Twin Buddha Son.
The crowd was surprised and intrigued to see this most anticipated participant take the stage first. Many were eager to witness his performance.
The Twin Buddha Son showed no emotion. Without a word, he stepped into the void portal under the watchful eyes of the audience.
The venue fell into silence, as no one could see what was happening inside the Floating Demon Realm.
The Realm Stones could only display the final battle results, so this was merely a preliminary round.
A brief moment later, the portal flickered, and the Twin Buddha Son emerged, holding the silver-white spirit pearl.
Nearby officials recorded the time, and one of them announced loudly, "Twin Buddha Son, 1 minute 34 seconds!"
The crowd was astonished. No one had expected him to return so quickly.
While they had no frame of reference for the timing, it was clear that retrieving the pearl so swiftly was impressive. The demon guarding the spirit pearl would have been at least Dao Law Realm, making such a quick retrieval remarkable.
Not long after, the next chosen prodigy was Zhao Qingshu, whom Li Hao had met before.
Zhao Qingshu looked serious as he stepped forward. Following the Twin Buddha Son would inevitably invite comparisons, and he felt a bit unlucky.
Still, as a proud prodigy, he wasn't overly intimidated. He quickly stepped into the void.
Time passed. After about fifteen minutes, Li Hao estimated, the portal flickered once more. A staggering figure stumbled out—it was Zhao Qingshu.