Contrary to what Zhou Xue Xian believed, Ye Xiao Lan did not go far nor did he leave the vicinity. After mixing with the crowd, he decided to enter one of the establishments across from the tea house where Zhou Xue Xian and Nangong Yu were situated. He sat on an inconspicuous corner where he could observe Zhou Xue Xian freely without being noticed.

From the beginning of the tournament, Ye Xiao Lan has been paying attention to Zhou Xue Xian. The dominance she showed during the first selection was what initially piqued his interest. Ye Xiao Lan’s curiosity grew as he observed more of her matches.

The experience was new to him. Ye Xiao Lan never paid attention to anyone before. From a young age he knew his path was different from others, that he was meant for greater things. Even when his siblings were squabbling for their father’s throne it meant nothing to Ye Xiao Lan. To him, achieving greater heights in cultivation was more rewarding and fulfilling than anything else.

When he received the invitation for the Conclave of Immortals, Ye Xiao Lan thought of declining. Cultivation is a bloody road where one wrong move could spell a deviation or worse, death. He did not have time to waste on silly charades and playing mock battles in tournaments did not interest him. The entry to San Yuan palace and the token for the Tengliu Domain were tempting but not enough to persuade him. But Ye Xiao Lan’s Master urged him to go. In fact, he was not only commanded to participate in the conclave but to take the championship!

Ye Xiao Lan has been cultivating since he was young. Unlike his peers, Ye Xiao Lan actually enjoys the monotonous life of a cultivator. This sort of unwavering dedication is what enabled him to progress more swiftly than anyone else. He never had attachments and was detached from mundane things that could hinder his growth.

This sort of attitude was not an issue if Ye Xiao Lan was merely cultivating for power and towards immortality. But Ye Xiao Lan is bound to inherit Jiàn Sect, one of the Seven Sects of Si Xiang.

Personal strength is important but being a patriarch of such a large and powerful sect comes with a different set of responsibilities. Though he’s gifted and was growing at a fast pace Ye Xiao Lan lacked what other cultivators have, worldly experience. His Master sent him out to gain experience, for Ye Xiao Lan’s benefit as well as for the benefit and future of Jiàn Sect.

At first, Ye Xiao Lan did not expect much from this trip. He was infernally bored and was in a hurry to go back to the sect. But after experiencing the rush of exchanging pointers with people who are on par and sometimes with higher skills than him, Ye Xiao Lan felt exhilarated and somewhat addicted. He felt like his horizon became broader and his Master was right to send him out.

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When Ye Xiao Lan issued the challenge to Zhou Xue Xian, he was prepared to be turned down. The challenge was unnecessary. The two of them were bound to meet each other in the arena at some point during the finals and there was no need to rush the inevitable. But unexpectedly, to Ye Xiao Lan’s delight, his challenge was accepted.

The battle between Ye Xiao Lan and Zhou Xue Xian quickly became the most anticipated event in the Imperial Capital. Usually, this is a match that could only be witnessed during the finals. Both combatants secured good rankings within the top ten and regardless of who wins the match, both would still have a chance to aim for the championship.

In truth, the match is merely an exhibition of sorts. But because of the huge crowd, who came to spectate, the arena for the final battles was opened early.

The cheers from the stands were deafening as Zhou Xue Xian and Ye Xiao Lan arrived and came up on the stage. The roars shook the arena but the two combatants did not seem to notice the commotion. Both were focused on the other and were closely observing each other’s movements. And once the horn was blown, both immediately took action and struck at the same time.

The two attacked each other simultaneously. They exchanged numerous moves that were too quick for low level cultivators to see. After a span of ten breaths, the two have already exchanged more than dozens of moves. The initial clash, without the use of weapons, ended in a draw. Their bare-handed combat skills and movement techniques were clearly on par with each other. And as if reading each other's minds, once separated, both took out their weapons and launched a series of attacks once again.

The crowd were left in awe with the magnificent display. Some have never witnessed such a high level battle before and those who have, could feel their blood boiling from excitement. The two were evenly matched, both in strength and technique.

Ye Xiao Lan may be a realm above Zhou Xue Xian but from their continuous exchange, it was evident the latter was not lagging too far behind. It is true that they’ve yet to display their full repertoire. But even if they did, it would be hard to predict who would emerge victorious from the clash.

Zhou Xue Xian and Ye Xiao Lan separated once again, only this time Ye Xiao Lan was frowning as he pointed his sword towards Zhou Xue Xian.

“I’ve noticed before, from your previous bouts. But now I am certain,” Ye Xiao Lan said slowly as his frown grew deeper. “The fighting style you’ve been using is not your original style, is it?”

The frenzied crowd suddenly became silent. What does that mean? Zhou Xue Xian has been participating in the tournament for more than a month. She’s been displaying extreme dominance and unquestionable battle prowess on stage. So far no one has seen or viewed anything amiss from the way Zhou Xue Xian utilizes her skills and techniques. Why would Ye Xiao Lan utter such a ridiculous notion?

While everyone was waiting in trepidation and anticipation, Zhou Xue Xian heartily laughed. “As expected of the successor of Jiàn Sect!” She chuckled, her eyes full of mirth and humor. “No one could escape the Young Master’s eyes.”