C354 A Restraint of the Heavenly Martial Sect!(1)
Woo Zhengyang's decision to decline the invitation to join the Heavenly Martial Sect took everyone by surprise. In the past, it wasn't uncommon for disciples from various sects to win the top spot at the Heavenly Martial Dao Discussing Great Association and still not join the Heavenly Martial Sect. However, this time, the situation was markedly different.
Firstly, Woo Zhengyang was offered direct entry into the inner circle of the Heavenly Martial Sect, enjoying the privileges reserved for the top hundred disciples. The resources available at this level are something many could never dream of, and even the Profound Heaven Sect could scarcely provide.
Secondly, this invitation came directly from the Sect Master, Yuu Xiaokun, and the Grand Elder, Lei Yuetian, with the endorsement of a Martial King expert. Woo Zhengyang might have considered his old ties with the Profound Heaven Sect and declined the first offer, but the second point left him with no easy way out.
From the perspective of the Martial King expert, while Moh Lunhui's unique martial arts techniques were valuable, Woo Zhengyang's unparalleled talent was even more crucial to the Heavenly Martial Sect. If Moh Lunhui's skills could benefit only one person, it would be the Grand Elder. In contrast, Woo Zhengyang had the potential to uplift the entire Heavenly Martial Sect.
Such a disciple was highly coveted by the Heavenly Martial Sect. If they couldn't secure him, they certainly wouldn't allow a smaller sect to do so, as that would create a formidable rival. While the Heavenly Martial Sect might not act overtly, their covert tactics were formidable enough that even a Reality Condensing Stage expert would struggle to withstand them, let alone Woo Zhengyang.
So, when Woo Zhengyang revealed his Ice Crystal Fire Body and his dual cultivation techniques, many believed his path was set: either join the Heavenly Martial Sect or face their wrath. Anyone with common sense would choose the former.
Woo Zhengyang didn’t seem like someone lacking common sense, yet he chose the latter. When he refused, everyone was stunned.
It seemed like Woo Zhengyang had lost his mind, but in reality, it was everyone else who seemed crazy. From start to finish, Woo Zhengyang remained calm, while others, including Yuu Xiaokun and Nie Fengyu, were visibly shocked by his refusal.
“Have you thought this through?” Yuu Xiaokun asked, regaining his composure after a brief moment of surprise.
Yuu Xiaokun’s tone was calm, devoid of any threat, but everyone understood his implication: Woo Zhengyang’s decision could lead to his demise. Yet, Woo Zhengyang nodded as if he didn’t grasp the gravity of the situation.
“What a pity, what a pity...” Yuu Xiaokun sighed, as if lamenting Woo Zhengyang’s choice not to join the Heavenly Martial Sect, and more so, the loss of such a promising talent before he could fully develop.
After his sigh, Yuu Xiaokun turned away, closing his eyes in silence.
“Woo Zhengyang, are you sure?” Even Nie Fengyu was at a loss for words.
At first, he genuinely believed Woo Zhengyang could clinch the top spot at the Heavenly Martial Dao Discussing Great Association, and he had a lot of confidence in him. However, he didn't anticipate Woo Zhengyang revealing such powerful hidden strengths during the event. With his Ice Crystal Fire Body, dual cultivation of body and energy, and combat abilities beyond his years, it was enough to make the Heavenly Martial Sect take notice, either to recruit him or eliminate him.
What surprised him even more was Woo Zhengyang's refusal to join the Heavenly Martial Sect. Faced with their potential attacks, he wasn't confident he could guarantee Woo Zhengyang's safety unless he stayed within the Profound Heaven Sect and never ventured out. Only then might the Heavenly Martial Sect not find an opportunity to strike. However, for a strong individual to emerge, talent, opportunity, and experience are crucial. If Woo Zhengyang stayed hidden in the Profound Heaven Sect, no matter how extraordinary his potential, it might ultimately be wasted, leaving him indistinguishable from others.
“Yes, I'm sure!” Woo Zhengyang nodded again. He understood Nie Fengyu's concerns, but he was even more aware of his own situation. The Heavenly Martial Sect couldn't take away his Ice Crystal Fire Body, but they could seize the No Life Sword, which for Woo Zhengyang, would mean death.
The three sects of the Fallen Sun Country coveted the No Life Sword. While they might not reveal anything in the short term, they certainly wouldn't keep this secret forever. With the methods of the Heavenly Martial Sect, it was only a matter of time before they uncovered the truth. If Woo Zhengyang joined the Heavenly Martial Sect, the risks would be even greater, and he would have no chance to escape if trapped within their ranks.
Seeing Woo Zhengyang's unwavering determination, Nie Fengyu was momentarily stunned before bursting into laughter. "Great! If even our disciples can be so bold, why should the Profound Heaven Sect fear going a little crazy?"
"They're all mad... completely mad..." This was the consensus among the onlookers.
The decision to stay or leave had already been made, but the Martial King expert from the Heavenly Martial Sect had yet to return, so everyone remained unable to depart.
Woo Zhengyang had already learned from Nie Fengyu what had transpired.