Chapter 171: Chapter 114: Is It Really Okay?

Seeing the favorable response from everyone, Lady Baihua smiled again and said, "That’s not all. After reporting this matter to the Monarch, she expressed great appreciation and is willing to further enhance the rewards we already have at Wuyou Valley."

The guests’ eyes brightened, and anticipation grew.

"Next, if anyone can achieve first place in the enlightenment segment, the Monarch can grant them a Celestial Tier flying sword, personally crafted by her."

"Moreover, considering that young cultivators might use this sword, she intentionally lowered the usage threshold, allowing it to be wielded at the third realm."

"Although its power is slightly reduced because of this, it is still far superior to an Earth Tier high-grade flying sword."

Upon hearing this, everyone’s envy and admiration grew, as the materials required to forge a Celestial Tier artifact are extremely precious. Only someone like the Monarch would disregard such gains and losses, crafting it bespoke for young cultivators.

"Additionally, considering that some cultivators might already have an ideal personal artifact and do not wish to replace it."

"If one does not desire this flying sword, an alternative reward is available: the Monarch can personally guide them for one day."

The guests were astounded upon hearing this, as many considered that receiving a day’s guidance from the Monarch was far more valuable than a mere Celestial Tier artifact.

After all, artifacts are external objects; for cultivators, personal cultivation is the foundation. If one can progress bravely and diligently on the path of the Dao, finding powerful treasures in the future is of no concern.

The young cultivators naturally became excited, eager to showcase their talents and perform well. The prospect of receiving praise from the Monarch was indeed a heavenly blessing.

Among the older generation, there was no shortage of those lamenting their inability to participate in such a wonderful opportunity, helplessly watching the younger ones shine.

Those in the valley felt fortunate, while cultivators outside the valley experienced a sense of loss, never expecting such generous treatment at this Baihua Banquet.

Even though 99.9% of them won’t win this first prize, entering the valley at least offers hope; failing to enter means missing that dream entirely.

Lady Baihua continued, "Finally, since this is the Baihua Banquet, female cultivators have a small privilege. The Monarch is willing to offer some guidance to those who secure a spot in the top three, considering the challenges faced by us women in our cultivation journey."

Upon hearing this, none expressed any dissatisfaction, their gaze towards Primordial Monarch Taixu filled with admiration.

Qingqing looked at the Monarch with eyes full of reverence and said to Chu Xuan, "See, the Monarch truly is a role model for all female cultivators in the world. I want to become someone like her in the future."

Since the Monarch explicitly "distanced herself" from Chu Xuan, Qingqing’s full admiration returned, long forgetting notions of "threatening rivals" and her mood improved.

However, Gu Haitang playfully remarked, "You also want to treat Chu Xuan like she does?"

After speaking, she realized it might not be appropriate and quickly closed her mouth, cautiously glancing at Chu Xuan. Thankfully, he wasn’t upset, seemingly contemplating something.

"Don’t talk nonsense." Qingqing glared at Haitang.

At this moment, Chu Xuan had already resolved to secure first place in the upcoming "enlightenment" segment.

This was not for the Celestial Tier flying sword, but to speak with Ming Yu clearly.

If Ming Yu were to abruptly leave after the Baihua Banquet ended, no matter how hard Chu Xuan tried to stop her, he wouldn’t succeed, given the vast difference in their cultivation levels. No matter how firm his resolve, it would be fruitless.

But if Chu Xuan were to claim first place, with Ming Yu’s nature, she would surely fulfill her promise, whether or not she preferred to see her "former disciple."

...

Next, Lady Baihua began explaining the specific rules. Since it’s "enlightenment," naturally it wouldn’t involve people engaging in duels on stage, fighting to the death.

She then flew to the platform herself, and from her storage artifact, retrieved a peculiar, coal-black object, placing it at the center of the stage.

The item was as large as a millstone and resembled a jagged, rocky fake mountain, with a round disc-like base.

Once Lady Baihua positioned it, Primordial Monarch Taixu calmly said, "I inadvertently discovered this object while exploring the Ancient Battlefield Ruins."

"At that battlefield during the Ancient Times, a fierce battle between immortals and demons took place, tearing apart the heavens and destroying the earth, severing the Spiritual Qi and disturbing the earth’s pulse. Even after countless years, it remains a very perilous place."

"The battlefield ruins are haunted by numerous demonic creatures, and the residual laws often trigger cultivators’ Heart Demons. However, there are also some interesting artifacts from those mighty beings of yore that remain."

"This particular piece is not exactly an artifact. Upon investigation, it turned out to be a peculiar ’crystal’."

"It is the crystallization of spells, Divine Techniques, dharma forms, and realms, as well as laws. It embodies the Dao, something meant to remain intangible, brought into being by terrifying external forces, coincidentally forming this anomaly."

"Within this crystal lies numerous imprints of spells and Divine Techniques, which cultivators can attempt to comprehend through close contact."

"Sometimes, it might not be fully formed Chapters; even incomplete fragments signify a decent level of comprehension."

"But be wary, as the process of enlightenment carries risks. It includes imprints of demonic paths, even those of Outer Celestial Demons. A cultivator whose intention is not steadfast can easily trigger their own Heart Demon, so one must act within their means."

As the guests reacted with surprise, contemplation, or hesitation, Lady Baihua continued:

"To save time, this enlightenment segment will last no more than three days."