Yuan's Ascension

Chapter 337: The Strongest Sword Immortal

If it were possible, Wu Yuan hoped to join the Moonsilver World. After all, the most talented of geniuses required the best environment for cultivation in order to reach their fullest potential.

"No," Zhuo Haiyue replied, leaving Wu Yuan slightly deflated.

"Li Xia. Your talent is commendable, but it has yet to reach the level of causing a stir in the immortal continent," Zhuo Haiyue remarked, shaking her head. "Do you have any idea how many disciples are currently enrolled in the Moonsilver World? Care to venture a guess?"

"Perhaps a thousand?" Wu Yuan hazarded a guess. Having spent the past few days reading through the information on various factions, he was well aware that the number of official disciples in large sects could reach tens of thousands. Once the outer disciples were factored in, the count could easily exceed millions.

It stood to reason that the Moonsilver World, a place designed for elite talents, should only have a few thousand disciples.

"At present, there are only nine elite disciples in the Moonsilver World, and less than 30 ordinary disciples," Zhuo Haiyue disclosed.

"So few?" Wu Yuan could not hide his astonishment.

The Moonsilver World was known for selecting only peerless talents from all corners of the immortal continent.

"Yes, the disciples of the Moonsilver World, as well as those in other large sects, are all under 3000 years of age," Zhuo Haiyue sighed. "In other words, the Moonsilver World only recruits a new disciple every few decades on average."

"Furthermore, they would rather accept no new disciples at all than accept someone substandard. There have been times when centuries went by without a single new disciple being recruited," Zhuo Haiyue emphasized, fixing her gaze on Wu Yuan.

Her message was clear. Despite his promising talent, Wu Yuan still had a long way to go before being considered for the Moonsilver World.

This fact was underscored by his performance in the one-star tower. While Wu Yuan had to give his all just to complete level 40, the geniuses of the Moonsilver World could likely complete level 50 or 60 without breaking a sweat.

"Though you may not be eligible for the Moonsilver World, your talent is more than enough to secure you a spot in any large sect," Zhuo Haiyue reassured him. "You've acquainted yourself with various sects over the past few days. Do you have a preference? Has any particular sect caught your eye?"

"I will let you know if a sect you are interested in has extended an invitation," Zhuo Haiyue stated.

Ideally, both parties would express mutual interest.

"Mm," Wu Yuan nodded.

In truth, over the past few days, he had received numerous messages from Amethyst Cradle Reverends via the immortal realm.

"Thousand Origins Sword Sect, Hundred Rivers Hall, Fierce Ocean Sword Sect," Wu Yuan listed three sect names, all of which were first-rate sects.

Wu Yuan didn’t even consider second-rate sects. Being unencumbered by familial ties or other limitations, he naturally gravitated towards the strongest options available.

Zhuo Haiyue nodded. "Indeed, while the Thousand Origins Sword Sect may not rank as highly in overall strength among the first-rate sects, they specialize in sword arts. Throughout the ages, they have produced numerous formidable sword immortals, earning them great respect and renown."

"In contrast, the Hundred Rivers Hall stands among the top ten of all sects, boasting immense power and a rich heritage in the sword path," Zhuo Haiyue continued.

"The Fierce Ocean Sword Sect, though slightly stronger overall than the Thousand Origins Sword Sect, barely scrapes into the top ten sects," Zhuo Haiyue remarked.

Wu Yuan listened intently.

He was well-versed in these details and chose these three major sects after thorough research, finding them the most suitable for him.

"However, only the Thousand Origins Sword Sect and the Hundred Rivers Hall have extended invitations to you," Zhuo Haiyue mentioned. “The Fierce Ocean Sword Sect has not.”

Wu Yuan was slightly taken aback. But after a moment of contemplation, he came to a realization. “Could it be due to my specialization in the Earth Dao?”

“Indeed,” Zhuo Haiyue said softly, explaining, "The two greatest sword inheritances of the Fierce Ocean Sword Sect are based on the Water Dao and Fire Dao, which complement each other well."

"Thus, over countless years, the top-tier powerhouses of the Fierce Ocean Sword Sect are almost all Water Dao or Fire Dao specialists. Nowadays, this sword sect primarily recruits disciples who specialize in these two Daos."

Wu Yuan found himself nodding in agreement.

Each sect had its own unique strengths and weaknesses, along with its own distinct specialization. Though they were all sword cultivation sects, there were naturally slight differences in their methods.

Moreover, he had chosen the Fierce Ocean Sword Sect as a fallback option.

"If the Fierce Ocean Sword Sect does not see fit to accept me, then so be it," Wu Yuan shook his head. "What about the Thousand Origins Sword Sect and the Hundred Rivers Hall?"

From Zhuo Haiyue's words, both of them had extended invitations to him.

"Among the two, the Hundred Rivers Hall boasts greater overall strength, with several Tribulation High Immortals in their midst. However, their expertise in the sword pales in comparison to the Thousand Origins Sword Sect," Zhuo Haiyue explained solemnly, "You must choose between the two, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each."

"Hmm," Wu Yuan pondered.

It was difficult to find a perfect solution. Even if the Thousand Origins Sword Sect was considered weaker in comparison, the fact that it stood as a first-rate sect meant its strength was undeniable.

To Wu Yuan, both of these sects were behemoths.

"The conditions put forth by these two sects are quite similar," remarked Zhuo Haiyue. "If you have established a sixth-degree immortal root, they will accept you as an hereditary disciple. If you have a fourth-degree immortal root, you will not only attain hereditary disciple status, but also be taken under the wing of a Divided Soul Earth Immortal."

"Of course, there may be the rare Tribulation High Immortal willing to take on disciples, but such occurrences are largely dependent on chance," Zhuo Haiyue continued. "After all, the Tribulation High Immortals are burdened with the pressure of their impending Tribulation, and are oftentimes disinclined to take on the responsibility of mentoring disciples."

Wu Yuan nodded in understanding, finding that the conditions presented by the two sects aligned closely with his expectations. The status of hereditary disciple within these first-rate sects was highly coveted, with only a few hundred positions under usual circumstances. Furthermore, the position was accompanied by unparalleled privileges.

Additionally, becoming a disciple of a Divided Soul Earth Immortal was equivalent to gaining a powerful backer. As Wu Yuan deliberated between the Thousand Origins Sword Sect and the Hundred River Palace, Zhuo Haiyue offered an unexpected suggestion.

"Li Xia, while joining either of these first-rate sects would be beneficial, I believe there is an alternative worth considering."

“Oh?” Wu Yuan was surprised. An alternative?

"The Dragon Star Immortal Sect," Zhuo Haiyue stated simply.

Wu Yuan’s confusion was evident. "Your Highness, this sect does not appear to specialize in swordsmanship."

From his research, he learned that the Dragon Star Immortal Sect leaned towards body refinement. As for qi refining, it lacked the same level of renown.

"Indeed, when measured against the Thousand Origins Sword Sect, the Dragon Star Immortal Sect falls short in their swordsmanship accomplishments," Zhuo Haiyue nodded. "However, I recommend this sect to you for three reasons."

"I look forward to hearing your insights," Wu Yuan said. He knew the scope of Zhuo Haiyue's knowledge far surpassed his own.

"Firstly, the Dragon Star Immortal Sect stands as the strongest among the 32 sects, undisputedly holding the number one position," Zhuo Haiyue spoke with a serious tone. "Even the four prince-rank families pale in comparison to the might of the Dragon Star Immortal Sect. Only the top three factions surpass it."

"The strongest?" Wu Yuan was taken aback.

The intelligence he had reviewed earlier only provided vague descriptions of the overall strengths of the various sects, without clearly indicating their exact ranking. But after some thought, he could understand why. Each of the first-rate sects had a long history and profound heritage. No one knew for sure what powerful cards they had kept hidden.

"That is because a living Archdemon resides within the Dragon Star Immortal Sect," Zhuo Haiyue revealed.

Wu Yuan's eyes widened in astonishment. An Archdemon? Was it true?

The type of Archdemon mentioned by Zhuo Haiyue differed from the Archdemons of the Middle Land.

For qi refiners, whether one specialized in the sword, array, alchemy or other classes, upon overcoming their Tribulations and achieving immortality, they were referred to as Archimmortals, beings whose longevity was equal to that of the heavens.

On the other hand, body refiners who were part of the demonic, blood devil body or other classes who successfully constructed their universes were known as Archeldritch, Archdemon, Archdevil, Archdeity, and other such titles, placing them at a similar level.

Wu Yuan had yet to hear of any first-rate sect with an Archimmortal-level powerhouse in their ranks. Clearly, his knowledge was incomplete.

"That Archdemon is immensely powerful," Zhuo Haiyue shook her head slightly. "His presence greatly bolsters the power of the Dragon Star Immortal Sect as a whole. The stronger a sect, the more abundant its cultivation resources. This is the first reason I urge you to consider joining."

Wu Yuan nodded in agreement. Resources were indeed crucial. His lifebound flying swords would require increasingly precious treasures and materials the further they were upgraded.

"The second reason lies in the fact that, while the sword class inheritances within the Dragon Star Immortal Sect aren’t the most powerful, the strongest sword immortal of this era across the entire immortal continent is a member of this sect," Zhuo Haiyue stated solemnly. "Though he is only at the Tribulation phase, his combat power rivals that of an Archimmortal."

"A sword immortal whose strikes defy all laws, renowned for his devastating attacks."

"However, it is still unheard of for a Tribulation cultivator to match an Archimmortal," Zhuo Haiyue added softly. "Thanks to this sword immortal, the reputation of the Dragon Star Immortal Sect only continues to rise."

Wu Yuan was left in awe at these revelations. The Dragon Star Immortal Sect was truly incredible.

"How about the third reason?" Wu Yuan inquired eagerly.

Zhuo Haiyue met his gaze and spoke, "The sword immortal of the Dragon Star Immortal Sect cultivates the Heaven and Earth Sword Path."

In an instant, a surge of electric anticipation coursed through Wu Yuan's mind. To think that he was cultivating the Heaven and Earth Sword Path!

Zhuo Haiyue continued, "You are currently studying the Dark Earth Sword Path. Once mastered, you can progress to the Heaven and Earth Sword Path. The second and third reasons can thus be combined into one."

"Perhaps the Thousand Origins Sword Sect and the Hundred Rivers Sect may boast a richer sword heritage, particularly the Thousand Origins Sword Sect, of which several Tribulation sword immortals are members."

"However, within the Dragon Star Immortal Sect, there is one individual best suited to be your mentor. On top of that, his sword inheritance is the most fitting one for you."

"When it comes to an inheritance, my advice is to choose quality over quantity," Zhuo Haiyue concluded.

Wu Yuan was completely convinced. Hadn't his qi refiner self ventured into this new world in search of a superior mentor and inheritance?

"Though, joining the Dragon Star Immortal Sect is not without its drawbacks."

"The main challenge lies in convincing that Tribulation High Immortal to take you under his wing," Zhuo Haiyue warned. "Should he agree, the benefits will outweigh the risks."

"However, if he declines, joining the Thousand Origins Sword Sect might be a better option."

"After all, the Dragon Star Immortal Sect lacks other Tribulation sword immortals and has few Divided Soul sword immortals."

Wu Yuan nodded thoughtfully.

Joining the Thousand Origins Sword Sect or Hundred Rivers Hall gave him a greater sense of security. On the other hand, joining the Dragon Star Immortal Sect was essentially a gamble on securing the mentorship of the Tribulation High Immortal. The rewards were great, but so too were the risks.

"Li Xia, this is merely my suggestion. The decision ultimately lies with you," Zhuo Haiyue remarked. "When you've made your choice, drop me a message."

As she prepared to depart, Wu Yuan interjected, "There’s no need, Your Highness. I have made my decision."