Ultimate Scheming System Chapter 21
Following a series of system reward beeps, the surroundings gradually regained its original silence.
Several elders landed within the Four Desolation realms and were trapped there till death. The rest of the remaining disciples without any exceptions, were slaughtered by the four legendary beasts, turning all of them into experience points for Xu Que.
"Rustle! Rustle!"
A slight gust blew past Xu Ques hair strands.
He reached for the amulet and gently spun it. Immediately, the four legendary beasts disappeared with the wind, dissolving into dense Qi and flowed into Pan Shan village.
"I am done, finally."
Xu Que heaved a long sigh of relief, opened the system interface and his character stats appeared in front of him.
Host: Xu Que
Cultivation Stage: Core Bearing Stage Level 5 (Clear Understanding)
Experience progress: 0/200000
Acting Tough Points: 350 points
Skill path: , Intermediate Level
Abilities : Soaring Dragons Nine Transformation (Maximum), Lightning Haste (Maximum)
Essence: Skill Path Essence (330 points)
Occupation: None
Status : Prince Consort of Fire Country
Just one battle moved him from Core Bearing Stage 1 to Core Bearing Stage level 5.
More importantly, it allowed him to acquire a whole 350 points of act tough points.
This 350 act tough points was a very big sum to Xu Que. It was also the most act tough points he had obtained to date.
"Hahahaha! Ive earned it big this time." Xu Que let out a big laugh momentarily.
However, the experience required for him to level up also increased. From Core Bearing Stage Level 1 to 2, it only required 30000 experience points. But now, to level up from Core Bearing Stage level 5 to 6, it required a whopping whole 200000 experience points. The difficulty has increased substantially.
Still, compared to the other cultivators in this world, who mostly meditate to train and absorb Qi, Xu Ques speed of advancement is frighteningly fast.
That was the reason Xu Que didnt really feel the difficulty. Furthermore, acquiring the 350 act tough points made him extremely happy.
With this much act tough points, he could buy many more items, including the Advanced Rank page , which was just a mere 100 act tough points. Time to buy, buy, buy!
What a wonderful feeling to have such happy events happening. Xu Que recalled obtaining a few golden cores after killing those Golden Core Stage elders and quickly opened his system item bag.
A few brightly shining, fist-sized golden colored beads were inside.
:
Originated from within the bodies of Golden Core Stage cultivators. It contains the cultivators accumulated life origin and skill paths. Upon swallowing, it has a 30% chance of obtaining the previous cultivators skills path obtained throughout their entire life, but has 30% chance of the swallower going out of control. If sold to the system, 50000 experience points can be obtained!
"Damn it, who knew golden cores have this type of effect." Xu Que shockingly exclaimed.
Previously, the beginner experience gain pill he ate was able to raise his experience points by 10000. But this golden core, on top of being able to sell to the system for 50000 experience points, it could be swallowed to obtain the previous Golden Core Stage owners skill path but at a risk of losing control. This core is definitely an upgraded edition of an experience pill!
However, since Xu Que has no lack of skills at the moment, he definitely will not take the risk and swallow the golden core.
Also, he is not in a hurry to level up. Hed rather leave it in his system item bag for times of need.
After reading the golden cores description, Xu Que switched to the view of the system store. With pockets full and good condition, he immediately centered his focus on the skill book bundle of the store.
A dazzling line-up of many types of skills, Xu Que was in a spoilt for choice situation once again.
According to importance, he should acquire the expert level, but his current Cultivation stage was still a long way more from the Original Infant stage which in other words, also mean that there was no present need to buy the expert page.
Also, after the fight, Xu Que found out a problem.
He realized that his skill books were too one-way. When he fought, he did not have a wide variety of moves to use and he felt that although he was acting tough, he wasnt enjoying it.
Although the combination of the Soaring Dragon Nine Transformations and the Thunder Haste were very swift and powerful, all he was doing was using his bare fists to engage in combat, far from his imagination of riding on a flying sword and drifting high into the mountains of celestial beings.
How was he supposed to act tough with a tough-appearing sense of style?
Therefore, Xu Que decided to exchange for a few more skills books and at the same time, might as well buy new valuable equipments. It would be even better if he could get hold a set of golden, shiny clothes shiny enough to blind all those other cultivators.
With the 350 act tough points, he immediately chose to browse through the sky-rank skills.
Originated from one of"Zhu Xian"story novels skill book, low level skill of Sky-rank. Unique technique from within Qing Yun Mens main mountainous region. With power through the Nine Heavens, it turns into godly thunder. Using the sword to draw its power, a brilliant might is unleashed.
Selling price: 50 act tough points.
Originated from one of"Fight Break Spheres"story novels battle skill, low level skill of Sky-rank. From the novel, this was Xiao Yans personal skill and was created through the fusion of many different types of flames to create a destructive force. The power of the Fiery Lotus itself depends on the number of the various flames combined. Capacity and potential of this skill is unlimited! (Warning: This battle skill requires possession of 2 or more fusion of different flames to execute.)
Selling price: 50 act tough points.
:
Originated from one of"Zhe Tian"story novels skill book, mid-level skill of Sky-rank. Attack and defense is merged into one. With this skill, earth-shaking strength is achieved, breaking through any forms of obstruction. In the story, body physique was merged with the "Emperor" to hone this skill to its pinnacle, able to shatter any Buddha artifact weapons or even better, rip them into nothing!
Selling price: 100 act tough points
(Remaining Volumes):
Originated from one of"Zhe Tian"story novels skill book, high-level skill of Sky-rank. Originally the power of the Nine Secrets into one. However, due to the skill defying the natural order, it was forbidden by Buddha. Hence, since ancients ago, it was divided into nine parts, namely, "Arrive", "Troop", "Battle", "People", "All", "Count", "Group", "Forward", "Move"!
Within them, the "Arrive" Secret character and the "Count" Secret character were lost in translation. When exchanging the remaining volumes, there is a chance on obtaining any of the other 7 remaining secret technique. Repeated Secret characters possible with more purchases.
Selling price: 200 act tough points.
Upon reading till this point, Xu Que knelt down on the spot!
So many skill books and all of them were the signature skills from the main characters of various novels. It was absolutely mouth-watering to read the descriptions.
However, this bundle of skill books had very little skills which needed or made use of magical weapons to activate. The only attractive one which fits this description was the . Xu Que wasnt very keen of it though.
What really perked his desire were the and the .
Buddhas Fiery Lotus didnt need much explaining. After fusing the flames, the power unleashed would be enough to wipe out everything in an instant. Also, the more variety of mystical flames fused, the more devastating the effects of the skill. This skill was an absolute bargain.
Obtaining the flame was a problem. Xu Que searched through the store and was shocked at their prices.
For example, the ranked 19th flame, Molten Green Lotus, required an expensive 300 act tough points.
"Looks like the road of acting tough is filled with obstacles. I have no choice but to buy the Nine-Characters Secret first, and wait till I strike it rich to buy all the top ten ranked flames." Xu Que nodded and focused on the Nine-Characters Secret.
This skill, originally from"Zhe Tian"s as an unsurpassed skill, showed valiant might.
Other than the 2 lost secrets, the remaining 7 all had descriptions.
"Troop" secret character: Weaponry type secret skill. Using it allows the smooth and natural maneuver of weapons and even temporarily seize control of enemies weapons, causing friendly fire even before the battle has begun. An absolute nightmare for opponents.
"Battle" secret character: Attack type secret skill. First sacred attack art, being able to copy many moves. Using "Battle" secret character, one can raise their attack power. Also, steal moves for own usage will be available.
"People" secret character: Aid type secret skill. An unsurpassed sacred healing art. Able to heal physical and spiritual injuries. Upon control, bodily injuries regenerate. Upon mastery, able to revive using the dripping of own blood. The user can even be nicknamed "The unkillable cockroach."
"All" secret character: Amplifying type secret skill. Can raise ones attributes by 10 folds but lowers the hit probabilities.
"Group" secret character: Aid type secret spell. A special type of troop formation line tactic which created the Ling Bao Deity.
"Forward" secret character: Aid type secret skill, can be used to assist cultivation, heightens the sixth sense. As a result, user will be able to anticipate attacks. Therefore, always maintaining the combat lead.
"Move" secret character: Speed type secret skill. Once under control, speed is unmatched and nobody will be able to catch or block the user. It will be akin to strolling amongst the ranks of enemies. When trained to the limit, user will be able to bend time with extreme speed.
...
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Ultimate Scheming System Chapter 22
Every secret art from the Nine-Characters Secret were ultimate techniques originated from various territories. With these skills which includes increasing ones attack power, defense power, regenerative power, and agility, ones overall combat ability will be greatly enhanced through the Nine-Characters Secret.
Xu Que looked very contented. However, it seems like the system store is behaving like a black market. It only sold leftover chapters with each skill costing a whole 200 act tough points.
Also, with every purchase, the acquired skill would be random. It would be possible that one gets the "Battle" secret character twice in a row upon purchase.
Still, since this was Xu Ques first purchase, he wasnt very stressed at the fact.
However, he was eyeing the "Troop" and "Battle" secret characters.
The reason was because these two secret skills were perfect tools to act tough.
The "Troop" secret character could be used to steal control over ones magical weapons, allowing the enemies own weapons to attack their owner. The "Battle" secret character could be used to copy enemies moves and even raise one attack power. It was similar to Mu Rong Familys An eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth within the novel"Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils".
Using ones own weapons against him and using his own moves against himself, it would be definitely embarrassing for the opponent.
Of course, the "People" and "Forward" secret characters were not too shabby.
The "People" secret character can be used anytime to regenerate injuries. Although the system has passive automatic regeneration, it was very slow. Moreover, the "People" secret character has a more frightening ability. Upon mastery, one could revive any living creatures using a drip of his blood. There was no need to be afraid to be destroyed thoroughly by opponents.
The "Forward" secret character was mainly used to cultivate ones spirit and heightens ones sixth sense. In other words, one will gain the ability to foresee moves. With the ability to predict, one will be able to judge and carry out the correct course of actions during combat, gaining dominance in the fight. This skill was definitely a good choice to act tough.
The ones Xu Que did not want to get were the leftover "Group", "Move" and "All" secret characters. It was not to say that these skills were not good, but to Xu Que, these two categories of secret skills were not usable at all.
The "Group" secret character was a type of troop tactic based move and Xu Que wouldnt use it very often.
The "Move" secret characters function is to increase speed but he already possessed the Three-Thousand Volt Thunder thus he had no use for it.
The "All" secret character was the same. Since he had the Soaring Dragon Nine Transformations, he did not need this secret skill at the moment. Choosing anyone of these skills would be an undesirable outcome.
"Eh screw that! I shant think so much. I am going to get this Nine-Characters Secret!"
After a moment of hesitation, Xu Que finally made his decision,and bought the expensive and wallet-burning Nine-Characters secret.
"Ding! Congratulations to host Xu Que on the successful exchange of (Remaining Volume). Obtained "Troop" secret character x 1. Do you want to learn this skill?"
"Yeah! Awesome!"
After hearing the system beep, Xu Que threw his fist in the air and let out a big laugh.
"Troop" secret character. How nice!
Xu Ques happiness was off the charts.
"Train it, I have to train it!"
"Ding! Congratulations to host Xu Que on successfully learning the "Troop" secret character."
Bang!
Xu Ques mind abruptly shook with strings of golden colored ancient characters flowing by like water waves relentlessly. Ultimately, the characters fused into a mysterious force, taking root within his body.
Xu Que raised the corner of his lip and continued, "I shall exchange for and ."
"Ding! Exchange successful. Do you want to learn the skills?"
"Yes!"
Whoosh! Whoosh!
Momentarily, his body emitted two waves of heat and flowed out of his body through his veins.
In a blink of an eye, Xu Que had learnt two skills.
The "Flame-Devouring Wave" and "Six Corporeal Forms" both originated from the techniques of the novel "Fight Break Spheres". They were moves used by the main character, Xiao Yan in the early stage of the book to dispose of strong enemies in a sweep.
Although very cheap priced at a mere 25 act tough points, adding the cost of the greatswords needed for the two skills, it would far surpass the cost of the Soaring Dragon Nine Transformations. It would even surpass the cost of low-level Sky-ranked skill books.
During his younger days, when Xu Que was reading the novel, when Xiao Yan held the ink-coloured, dark heavy greatsword, he felt that his character was uncomparable. It seemed like he looked very tough everywhere he went. And now, here he was, learning these two immersive skills. He couldnt wait anymore and entered the weaponry section of the system store and started to choose his greatswords.
The weapons bundle were filled with many classes and levels of magical weapons. They were split into the amount of stars they have. The higher the star level, the better the quality of the weapon.
There were not many choices for the heavy greatsword and the numbers could be counted.
The lowest class was .
The weapon was from strongest godly sword from another of a novel by Jin Yong, a novelist. It was forged using dark metal, weighing 64 pounds; wielded by the sword demon, Dugu Qiubai, he became unbeatable in the world for 40 years.
After Dugu Qiubais death, the Dark Iron Heavy-Sword was passed on to Yang Guo. It was later melted by Huang Rong and later reforged into the Heavenly Sword and the Dragon Saber.
The greatsword did not have a pointed edge, since it was rectangular shaped. Hence it also belonged to blunt class weapons. Although it has 1 star level, it requires 50 act tough points to purchase which was pretty frightening.
However, the "Troop" secret character, along with the two Earth-rank skills, costed only a total of 225 act tough points. He still had a hundred over points, and was confident that he could buy a stronger weapon than this.
He focused his attention to 2 star level weapons.
:
Originated from within novel "Fight Break Spheres"s weapons. Used by the main character, Xiao Yan. Forged by flame-type dark metals, this weapon is very sturdy and solid. Seemingly weighing like over a thousand pounds, it has a mystical effect of crushing enemies.
Selling price: 100 act tough points
The Dark Heavy-Greatsword was very similar to the Dark Iron Longsword. However, the blade of the greatsword seemed very big and bulky. Moreover, on that dark giant greatsword, there were faint, exotic vein-like on the blade itself. The vein-like design stretched up to its handle. The carvings filled the entirety of the blade, along with its plain dark and simple colour. It looked rather mysterious indeed.
"Im buying it!"
Xu Que moved his hand in a wide motion, immediately buying the Dark Heavy-Buster Sword, which had a price comparable to that of a mid-level Sky-rank skill book.
I will definitely look especially tough now that I am similar to Xiao Yan!
"Ding! Congratulations to host Xu Que on obtaining Dark Heavy-Buster Sword."
"Ding! Detected that host has learnt the Flame-Devouring Wave and Six Corporeal Forms skills. Completed hidden achievement. Awarded with Xiao Yans Black Robe x 1."
Wow! Damn!
Whats happening? I got a free hidden achievement prize for buying something?
But what does Xiao Yans Black Robe do?
Does it have any attribute effects?
Xu Ques face was stunned. He then quickly opened his system inventory.
:
Unsellable item. A robe worn by Flame Emperor Xiao Yan when he was young, making it very valuable. Able to conceal ones appearance. Cultivation stages of Infant Transformation and below will be unable to detect concealment. While wearing the robe, it gives opponents a pressure of immense power.
"Damn. Is this the legendary automatic acting tough?"
Xu Que was very excited upon the occurrence of the event.
Being able to conceal ones appearance is nothing but being able to give opponents a pressure of immense presence is really something big.
Thinking of it, once the robe is worn, an immense pressure will follow everywhere I go. Everyone will focus their attention on my presence and will immediately trigger the "Subtle acting tough" reward.
"Hahahaha! Wherever I walk, no one can resist my presence."
Xu Que was overjoyed. He immediately took out the black robe and the Dark Heavy-Greatsword.
The moment the black robe was donned, his aura changed. He was exuding an icy cold and deep presence.
Xu Que then carried the Dark Heavy-Buster Sword on his back, creating a spitting image of a fake Xiao Yan.
"Wow! It feels rather good. When I have time, I shall change into this set and walk around the Sects to earn some act tough points.?"
With a contentful nod, Xu Que kept both the items back into his system inventory.
He didnt want to show up at Pan Shan Village looking like this. He was afraid that with the robe, the immense pressure will cause the villagers to kneel down and worship him again.
At the moment, the Pan Shan Villagers were stupefied.
When Xu Que was fighting a war with those cultivators on the mountains, the villagers were watching from below.
When the four legendary beasts were summoned, the villagers were badly frightened.
When they saw that the fairy-boned "Old Saints" were forced into the spell by Xu Que and killed all of a sudden, they all gained their senses immediately.
Looking up, the vermillion bird and the green dragon had already disappeared.
The skies were blue and the mountains were intact!
Xu Que changed back into the coarse hemp robes. With a mesmerizing smile, he rode on the lightning and hovered down from the mountains with his clothes fluttering with the wind.
Amongst the crowd, Xiao Rou was dazed. With the small and blushy face and beady eyes, she was so adorable, that someone would just take a bite out her.
Ultimate Scheming System Chapter 23
Upon Xu Ques arrival, cheers could be heard.
Everyone gathered around and asked if he had been hurt but judging from Xu Ques unfazed appearance, everybody was surprised and praised that immortal elder Xus skills were unremarkable.
"Dont worry, my fellow villagers. With the spell that I had set up, those people will never come back to cause trouble again." Xu Que assured the villagers.
The villagers were very thankful. They wanted to kneel down to thank him but were stopped by Xu Que. It was after countless rounds of persuading that they decided not to kneel.
At this time, a man from the crowd walked out and worriedly asked, "Immortal Elder Xu, what do we do now? During your battle, we saw two people sneaking off from the battlefield. We are afraid that they will call for more backup"
"Oh, two of them ran off?" Xu Que didnt look too surprised.
He was too fixated on killing Elder Liu and the others. Two disciples escaping from him was rather normal.
This wasnt a very big deal to him. Even if none of them escaped, receiving no news from Elder Liu and the others would cause Celestial Sect to return anyway.
"Please rest assured, you people can just stay here. The spell will protect you all." Xu Que comforted the group.
Even if he decided to bring the villagers and flee through the underground passage to the back of the mountains, the cultivators would have a vast range of powers to search for them. The results would be the same.
In addition, without the protection of the Four Directions Desolation, it would only put the villagers in more danger.
"Everyone listen to Big brother Xu Que. He will definitely protect us." Xiao Rou ran out and told everybody.
Xu Que smiled at her. She started to blush and looked cutely sincere.
The villagers saw her sincerity and couldnt help but to reveal honest smiles all around. Xiao Rou then turned and ran away.
Everybody eventually scattered and returned to their homes to rest.
Xu Que was starting to think about what to do with Pan Shan village's future.
After all, he could not stay here for a long period of time. The world is vast and he desired to explore them but before leaving, he had to decide on the future plans for the safety of the village.
With the Four Directions Desolation locked in position, the Pan Shan villagers were all safe and protected.
With such large areas of land and lakes, including many goats and chickens on the mountains, even if the villagers do not step foot outside, they will be able to survive in the future and be self-sufficient.
However, it seems like the village still needs some supplies. For example, food reserves and also some seeds to be planted.
Xu Que found the men and heard that there was a small town in the vicinity of Pan Shan Village. The village not only had commoners residing in it, but also have frequent visits by cultivators who went there to enjoy themselves.
"After walking past two mountains, you will be able to see the small town. Immortal Xu, shall we go instead?"
The men learnt that Xu Que wanted to purchase supplies on the villages behalf and became very concerned.
The reason was because Xu Ques wanted posters were all over the streets of the small town. He will definitely be attacked by more cultivators if he goes there.
"There is no need. There are many supplies which you cant carry alone. Besides, if you go, you will become an easy target for suspicion. I can handle this." Xu Que patted Da Zhuangs shoulder and rejected his proposal.
In actuality, Xu Que couldnt wait for more people to kill for experience points. Furthermore, with the , he can conceal his appearance. He had no need to be worried about cultivators finding out his identity.
After making his decision, Xu Que ordered the men to ask what the rest of the villagers wanted to buy. He could get them on the way.
Upon hearing, Xiao Rou was the first to go to Xu Que. She said, "Big Brother Xu Que, please remember to buy a few pieces of good fabric on your way back."
"Fabric?" Xu Que asked shockingly.
Blushing, Xiao Rou nodded and mumbled, "Your clothes dont look like they fit, I I would like to make a new set for you."
Xu Que proceeded to look downwards at the coarse hemp clothes he was wearing then looked back at Xiao Rou, who shyly lowered her head. He laughed and replied, "Alright, I will get it."
"Mm." Xiao Rou replied, turned around and jogged back.
Looking at her cute silhouette, Xu Que felt a sensation of warmth. Unknowingly, he let out a slight smile filled with happiness.
Xu Que decided to set off in the evening when the sun had set.
He went through the underground passage and donned on his . In the sight of no one, he decided to quietly activate his and swiftly proceeded into the distance.
With the night impending, Xu Que finally arrived at the Town of Water.
Although they said that it was a small town, it didnt seem like it at all.
With one look, Xu Que felt that the town was at least a few football fields big. The town walls were constructed to be very high and there was a patrol team at the town entrance.
Looking up in the skies of the Town of Water, he could witness various cultivators, steering on their flying swords from time to time.
When Xu Que walked into the town, it was bustling with life. The night market was vibrant with bright lights all around.
Noises could be heard from several inns and many cultivators were drinking and talking to their hearts content. Many of them were Sect disciples who were of Qi Refining Stage.
Xu Que scanned through and decided to leave. All of a sudden, he saw a bunch of similar shadow walking past him.
"Its her." Xu Ques skipped a beat.
The owner of the silhouette was the woman whom Xu Que saw when he just arrived in this world. This woman was also Tang Xue Rou of the Celestial Sect.
At the same time, a few young cultivators similarly dressed in Celestial Sect robes can be seen accompanying her. They were carrying sharp swords on their backs and walking out of an inn while happily chatting away. It seemed like they just finished their food and were about to leave.
While walking, their eyes fixed momentarily on Xu Que. They were astonished.
Tang Xue Rou did not recognize Xu Que as he was wearing Xiao Yans Black Robe. On top of concealing his appearance, he was emitting an immense aura.
The reason they turned their attention to him was due to this aura.
Xu Que didnt want to care about these few people and definitely did not want to reveal his identity. Without speaking, he proceeded to walk past them.
After a few steps, mumbling and discussing could be heard from those few people.
"What a strong aura!"
"You dress oddly but who knew you had such high cultivation?"
"When he was standing beside us, I was feeling suffocated. How strong!"
"..."
"Ding! Congratulations to host Xu Que for successfully subtly acting tough. The reward is 10 act tough points."
Xu Que was silently overjoyed when he heard the system beep in his mind.
He guessed it right. This black robe was definitely a perfect tool to act tough. He should definitely wear it more and walk the streets.
"Yes. Have you guys heard? Something happened to a few Sect members today. We heard that the person who is wanted by us is at Pan Shan village. In the end, out of the few elders sent there, only two disciples managed to escape. The rest didnt make it back alive."
"Of course I know. The Sunset Faction members came over to our faction to discuss about this today."
"Ive also heard that the wanted man has big origins. He is the son of some big guy."
At the moment, the Celestial Sect disciples burst into discussion.
After that sentence, Xu Que slowed down his footsteps and went to a halt. He was astonished.
What?
I have big origins? And Im the disciple of some famous person surnamed Duan?
How come I didnt know that?
Ultimate Scheming System Chapter 24
Xu Que was astonished. The spate of events just happened today. It was totally unexpected that the disciples from the Celestial Sect had already received word of the incident. On top of that, they were already discussing about the incident.
Before he even entered the town, the town already knew about him!
Not bad, not bad. This is a good omen!
Xu Ques heart of vanity was filled with contentment and his face inevitably broke into a smile.
Since he wasnt really in a rush, he might as well eavesdrop on them. He leaned against the wall, acting like he was waiting for someone, lifted his ears and sneakily listened to the Celestial Sect disciples conversation.
"Its been said that this great mans name is famous throughout the east continent and our Sect Leader is very afraid of him."
"Can it really be? Where does the man came from?"
"Heard that his name is Duan Jiu De."
"Thats right. This afternoon, when the Sunset Faction came to our Sect to find the leader, we were guarding the gates. When we saw the Sect Leader hearing the three words Duan Jiu De, his face looked very shocked and he even addressed him as Senior Duan. Think about it. If even our Sect Leader addressed him as Senior, wouldnt that person be insanely strong?"
"What? Could it be that the person that we offended was a disciple of that Senior Duan? Th-this could be bad!"
"Damn it. Ive asked the Sunset Faction disciple about it since I am more familiar with him. Ive heard from him that the person weve offended is indeed that Senior Duans disciple. He cant be wrong."
"Ding! Congratulations to host Xu Que for successfully subtly acting tough. The reward is 10 act tough points!" Xu Ques mind suddenly sounded with the system beep amidst the conversation.
He became startled for a bit.
What the hell. This counts as successfully acting tough?
Looks like the requirement for acting tough is to simply witness or hear my reputation being discussed by others.
However, the conversation has let Xu Que understood what was happening to a small extent.
It turned out that those two Sunset Faction Disciples who escaped today are spreading word by mouth.
At the time when Elder Liu and others mistook him for being Duan Jiu Des disciple, the rest of them witnessed the situation. When the two of them fled, they immediately reported this information to their Faction. Therefore, stirring up the current false rumors.
Of course, Xu Que didnt wish to clarify the situation for them. His eye lit up and a big opportunity to act tough was right in front of him again.
"Duan Jiu De. The man that even the Celestial Sect Leader calls senior is believed to be my master? Haha! Id be letting you all down if I dont make use of this situation to my advantage."
Xu Que let out a slight grin and quickly left to purchase the supplies.
At the same time, inside Celestial Sects discussion hall, several faction elders including the Celestial Sect leader were all seated and were in a midst of discussion.
Their topic was still related to Xu Que but they were in actuality discussing about Duan Jiu De.
"This is no small matter. Senior Duan has an odd temperament and his reputation Cough Everyone is very clear of it. Supposedly, weve come to injure and hurt his disciple, according to his temper, I am afraid that the consequences will be dire." One of the factions Elder spoke while stroking his beard.
"Damn. You Fierce Flame Faction people had no losses from your side. Of course you all would say that. A few disciples from our Sunset Faction were injured and two Golden Core Stage Elders were killed. If we let this matter slide, how do you expect our Sunset Faction to stand in the Fire Country in the future?"
"Thats right. Us Fire Cloud Faction had many casualties as well. We definitely cannot let the matter rest."
"That kid is extremely vicious. How can we just drop it like that? Please, Sect Leader Zhang, handle the situation on our behalf."
"Sect Leader Zhang, please call the shots!" At the time, the members and Elders of the several factions stood up, faced a middle-aged man who was seated, and bowed to him as respect. They invited him to step forth.
The middle-aged man was wearing a white satin python robe. His appearance was dazzling and he emitted a powerful and prestigious aura. Here is the Sect Leader of Celestial Sect, Zhang Dan Shan!
Zhang Dan Shan was already at the Infant Transformation stage for many years and had cultivated to the Infant Transformation Stage level 5. Although he was one level below the Fire Countrys emperor, his strength was still one to behold.
The fact that the Celestial Sect was able to influence all the other Faction as subordinates was naturally because of his boundless, majestic powers.
Creasing his dense eyebrows, he felt that the current matter was not easily resolved.
Duan Jiu De was such an infamous name and was already a household name during Zhang Dan Shans younger days. They had even met one another before.
He was aware of Senior Duans frightening prowess. Senior Duan hasnt appeared in the East Continent for around a hundred years but suddenly, a youngster popped out of nowhere and claimed to be his disciple. This caused Zhang Dan Shan to be somewhat suspicious.
However, he had heard that the youngster was carrying many types of rare treasures, able to shrink the ground to escape from the Original Infant Stage Elder. He was capable of putting a spell around Pan Shan Village, was of Core Bearing Stage, and single-handedly killed over ten cultivators. Among the fallen cultivators were many Golden Core Stage elders.
As if now, Zhang Dan Shan erased any thoughts of doubt and was convinced that the youngster was definitely Duan Jiu Des disciple.
Looking at the big picture, only that seniors disciple would have such powers. Also, their behaviours were too similar. For example, the tendency of stealing treasures and having no qualms about killing someone.
After pondering for some time, Zhang Dan Shan looked at the seated members of those smaller Factions and finally spoke.
"The matter is indeed a big one. Most of you may have heard of Senior Duans past achievements and today, his disciple has come to us. By right, we should pay our due respects to him. However, it is clear that his intentions here arent anything noble. He has pilfered one of the Celestial Sects small treasure house and also endangered the lives of the disciples of the various Factions. We will not let this matter slide, unless he gives us a good reason to."
Zhang Dan Shan slightly paused and continued, "How about this, everyone of you may stay at the Celestial Sect for now. I will find someone to get that youngster over here tomorrow. If he is willing to render to his mistakes and apologise, we shall let this matter rest."
Is just apologising enough?
Under normal circumstances, no one present would agree with that.
Anyhow, since it was a suggestion directly from Zhang Dan Shan, nobody opposed to the idea. All of them nodded. They then proceeded to bow out of respect and agreed at the same time, "We will let Sect Leader Zhang handle the entire situation."
After all, they were all merely a small faction. The heated argument just a moment ago could be rooted to their egoistic natures.
If he were to order them kill Duan Jiu Des disciple, none of them will dare to do it even if there were a hundred of them.
The suggestion by Zhang Dan Shan was equivalent to giving those small Factions a way out. They had no reason to not take it.
However, just as everybody thought that the matter will be solved, an unapproving voice could be heard.
"Sect Leader, the old lady here doesnt approve."
An old woman stood up and exclaimed.
The Celestial Sect Elder who wanted to kill Xu Que personally before was also the master of Tang Xue Rou Sun Jue Li.
"Elder Sun, any reasons for objecting?" Zhang Dan Shan briefly looked at her, creased his eyebrows and asked her in an enthusiastic tone.
The old woman coldly replied, "That little scoundrel has so much blood on his hands. How could we let him off this easily? Also, he may not be Duan Jiu Des disciple after all, since he has yet to prove his identity. Previously, I saw him once and he impersonated the Prince Consort of Fire Country. He could be a liar. Even if we really killed him, if Duan Jiu De finds us, we could definitely reason out with him."
As her voice subsided, everybodys face started to show weird expressions.
They didnt have doubts on Xu Ques identity. Instead, they were utterly convinced that he was Duan Jiu Des disciple.
Impersonation. Wasnt this something Duan Jiu De loved to do? For his disciple to have this same hobby was very fitting.
Zhang Dan Shan weaved his hands and said, "Whether he is Senior Duans disciple or not, we will know when he comes tomorrow to the Sect. When tomorrow comes, order someone to go to Pan Shan village and invite him over. That is all."
After finishing, his figure gradually faded and like water drops landing on paper, his figure slowly blurred and ultimately disappeared from the discussion room.
This remarkable ability had been witnessed by everyone too many times before and they werent surprised.
They understood what Zhang Dan Shan meant by his last sentence.
How that youngster will be dealt with tomorrow depended on whether he is actually Duan Jiu Des disciple or not.
If he is, he definitely cant be killed.
If not, there would be no need for words. He will absolutely die by the hands of the Celestial Sect.
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Ultimate Scheming System Chapter 25
That night, Xu Que strolled around town.
On his way, he walked past cultivators from time to time. They were all attracted by the black robes he donned but at the same time, were afraid to provoke him due to the immense aura he emitted. One by one, they chose to take detours instead.
Throughout his trip, he bought a number of goods and gained considerable amounts of act tough points.
Due to the late night, many shops were already closed. Xu Que had no choice but to find an inn to stay for the night.
The next day morning, the market became crowded again and the shops reopened. Xu Que decided to walk around again.
Many cultivators were staring at him in awe, along with some degree of respect for him. He continued strutting along with the black robes flapping with every step, showing a very confident front.
At the same time, system beeps were continuously heard sounding out. His act tough points were rising quickly!
When he finally bought all the supplies, Xu Que found out that his act tough points had risen by quite a bit, increasing from 25 points to 130 act tough points. This trip was fruitful indeed.
With a contented heart, he left the small town.
On his way out of the small town, he quickly deposited the items he purchased into the system deposit space without anyone looking. He also changed out of the black robes, back into the coarse hemp clothes. Chewing on a piece of foxtail millet grass, he confidently walked towards the direction of Pan Shan Village.
He felt like he had nothing to worry about. If he showed his true appearance and walked along the streets, even if people recognized him, he was prepared to kill a large number of pursuers to earn a whole bunch of act tough points.
However, Xu Ques luck wasnt so good. He had seen a little to no cultivators.
The weird thing was that when everyone saw him, they turned pale and ran away.
The reason was that during the night, Xu Ques notoriety had already spread past the small towns borders.
Many cultivators had already heard of him killing Golden Core Stagers and had a formidable master backing him up. Who would dare to provoke him?
This situation made Xu Que panic. If nobody dared to stand up to him, how will he gain experience and level up his cultivation?
"Hey, hey. Whos that? Come here. Yes, you, come over here Damn it, why are you running away? I am not going to eat you."
He finally chanced upon several cultivators and Xu Que quickly called out to them. The bunch quickly figured out his identity and swiftly fled as if seeing a ghost.
Xu Que made a face of regret. He shouldnt think of killing others for the sake of leveling up. Furthermore, they hadnt provoked him.
"Sigh, you people have no perseverance or willpower whatsoever. How can you guys give up on killing me due to such a small obstacle?!" Xu Que shouted at those peoples backs.
The bunch of cultivators who were running heard his voice and one of them stumbled and almost tripped and fell.
You single-handedly fought countless Golden Core Stage Elders and you are some famous mans disciple. Who the hell would dare to touch you?
You call your skills a small obstacle? This obstacle is scarier than the heavens, don't you think?
"Forget it. I still have other chances in the future to fight and gain levels."
The few people were all gone out of sight. Xu Que pursed his lips and gave up the thinking of gaining experience on the way back.
Lightning streaked past under his feet as he executed the Lightning Haste spell. He then advanced towards Pan Shan village.
After flying past two mountains and a lake, Pan Shan village was already almost within reach.
At this time, he suddenly saw two rays of light fly past him.
Xu Que turned and looked. He became increasingly overjoyed by the minute.
They were disciples of the Celestial Sect and theyre wearing long robes. Amongst them, there was a young man who seemed familiar. He then recalled seeing him when he was at the Celestial Sect stealing items from their treasure store. That young man was Zhang Su Liang.
Dont tell me they are sending me free experience points? Why are they sending just two men?
While puzzling over the situation, those two people saw Xu Que and steered their flying swords towards the ground.
"My friend. Our Sect Leader invites you to come to Celestial Sect!" Zhang Su Liang felt awkward and weird seeing Xu Que again but explained his reason for coming regardless.
Xu Que was stunned the moment he heard the two words, "Sect Leader".
Celestial Sect Leader? Damn. Its that old monster who is at Infant Transformation Stage. He has invited me over to see him. With my current Cultivation Stage, what if I go and he pins me down and beats me up? Only a dummy would agree to go.
"Im not going." Xu Que replied with a cold and straight face.
Zhang Su Liang and the other disciple was stunned for a moment, panicked and asked, "My friend, we dont mean harm. The Sect Leader has invited you over to the Celestial Sect to discuss and clear the misunderstanding between you and the various factions."
Clear the misunderstanding?
Xu Que became surprised yet again and thought about the rumour he heard about him at the small town. He immediately came into realization.
It most probably because the Celestial Sect Leader thought that he was the disciple of Duan Jiu De and therefore chose to give way instead of punishing him.
This is a good chance to act tough!
Xu Que touched his chin in contemplation, and muttered pretentiously, "Oh, so he wants to discuss that matter with me. Alright. Go back and tell your Sect Leader to come to me and discuss the matter instead."
"What?" Zhang Su Liang and the other disciple widened their eyes.
Ask the Sect Leader to come to you? Are you dreaming? And what an arrogant tone you have there?
Xu Que replied with a straight face, "What is it? Don't you people know who am I? If you two dont know, go back and ask your Sect Leader."
"Ding! Congratulations to host Xu Que for successfully acting tough. The reward is 20 act tough points."
The system beep sounded and Xu Que laughed out loud in his mind.
"This"
Zhang Su Liang and the other Celestial Sect disciple puckered their eyebrows and looked at one another with their faces revealing some embarrassment.
Clearly, they had already heard the rumour of Xu Que being Duan Jiu Des disciple and in the face of Xu Ques arrogance, the both of them were further convinced of the truth of the apparent rumour.
"Friend, we know that you have a respectable name but our Sect Leader and the various Faction Elders are currently waiting for you. We would like to trouble you to just follow us back"
"Right. On the account of your good attitude, I shall follow you people." Xu Que waved his hands, interrupting the two disciples, agreeing to go to Celestial Sect.
He originally wanted to reject at all costs but had changed his mind at the last minute.
The reason was for Pan Shan villages safety. He thought about the fact that although nobody was a match for the Four Directions Desolation so far, it was only effective against cultivators below the Infant Transformation Stage.
If the Celestial Sect Leader comes down personally, the protective screen would be absolutely useless to him. Also, if he destroys the spell, consequences would be dire.
Therefore, Xu Que decided not to make the Celestial Sect Leader come over. Hed rather go over the Sect and act tough and gain more act tough points!
Moreover, he had in his system inventory the Divine Escape Emblem. He could escape after acting tough and immediately exchange for even higher ranked spells. This would make Pan Shan village be free of dangers.
Xu Que had planned out everything perfectly. He then calmly activated the Lightning Haste spell. He immediately headed towards the Celestial Sect in a frenzied speed.
"What a fast skill he has!"
"He can actually ride on lightning. His background is definitely not normal."
Zhang Su Liang and the other Celestial Sect disciple landed and marvelled at Xu Ques skills and were both awestruck.
At the same time, Xu Que who was miles away again received the successful acting tough system beep!