Chapter 516

Chapter 516: The Choice

"Palace Master, do our sect’s rules truly demand such kneeling etiquette?"

Shu Anshi spoke with gentle composure, neither submissive nor defiant, his gaze steady on the elevated platform as faint smile lingered.

The hall plunged into silence, all eyes turning to the Divine Grace Palace Master. For centuries, no disciple had dared address their leader with such boldness – this moment defied belief.

Clad in ornate robes, the Divine Grace Palace Master appeared middle-aged with angular features, starry eyes, and sword-like brows that radiated authority. His expression remained calm as he regarded Shu Anshi.

"A Golden Core stage cultivator at peak realm challenges a Fourth Level Nascent Soul elder to access the Spiritual Pond?" The Palace Master bypassed protocol discussions, cutting straight to the heart.

Shu Anshi inclined his head. "Precisely. My three sect-brothers and I seek trial participation. Should we prevail, we humbly request Spiritual Pond access."

"Recall the terms," Ling Xudu interjected coldly. "Three victories minimum for consideration. More successes improve your odds."

"Our preparations are thorough, Grand Elder." Shu Anshi’s smile didn’t waver. "We await commencement."

Ling Xudu’s repeated interruptions carried subtle disregard for the Palace Master’s authority.

Kun Huazi nudged Zhuge Chong and Ye Yun, stage-whispering, "This Ling elder acts mightier than our Palace Master!"

Zhuge Chong feigned shock. "Second Brother! Have you forgotten? Grand Elder Ling achieved Fourth Level Nascent Soul a century past. His cultivation depth remains unfathomable."

"Ah!" Kun Huazi’s eyes widened theatrically. "A hundred years at same realm? Surely he’s nearing Earth Immortal status now! At very least half-step from sainthood!"

Zhuge Chong lowered his voice conspiratorially. "Rumor says he suppresses cultivation like elder brother – maintaining Fourth Level for foundation-building. His imminent breakthrough will shake heavens!"

Kun Huazi clasped hands in mock reverence. "Such willpower! When breakthrough comes, it’ll be like tsunami meeting avalanche – unstoppable divine ascent!"

Ye Yun bit his cheek to stifle laughter. Their sarcasm hung thicker than temple incense.

Platform officials exchanged uneasy glances while early-arriving disciples smothered giggles. None dared openly cross the Grand Elder.

Ling Xudu stood rigid, face purpling. His century-long cultivation stagnation was open secret, now cruelly spotlighted.

"Outrageous!" The Grand Elder wheeled on Tian Yunzi. "This how you train disciples?!"

Tian Yunzi merely raised an eyebrow, silent dismissal cutting deeper than words.

Ling Xudu’s finger trembled toward Shu Anshi’s group. "Today I’ll witness Absolute Heart Peak’s vaunted prowess firsthand!"

Kun Huazi blinked innocently. "Grand Elder would spar juniors? A Fourth Level Nascent Soul against Golden Core insects? How… unconventional."

"Second Brother misunderstands," Zhuge Chong interjected. "This is rare guidance opportunity! Though…" He tapped his chin. "…perhaps Grand Elder could seal cultivation to our level? For fair instruction?"

Ling Xudu’s qi surged violently as he lunged platform-ward –

"Composure, Grand Elder."

The Palace Master’s mild command froze Ling mid-leap. Reluctantly, the elder retreated.

Rising, the Palace Master addressed Shu Anshi. "Name your challenge, our millennium’s finest. Whom shall face you?"

Shu Anshi bowed. "After reconsideration, I elect…" His gaze found its mark. "…Grand Elder Ling Xudu."

Silence shattered into shocked murmurs. Nascent Soul elders above third level recoiled as if burned.

Ling Xudu’s face darkened like stormclouds, murderous intent flickering. The insult burned deeper than any flame – a Golden Core ant daring to challenge heaven itself.