Chapter 1007: Battle Of Wits And Courage
The Ancient Corridor?
Yi Feng was utterly confused upon hearing this and instinctively blurted out a question.
"What is the Ancient Corridor? Weren't we just by the lake earlier? How did we end up in a place like this...?"
Fu Nantian glanced around at the sea of stars, his eyes filled with awe and amazement.
"There are many ancient secret realms in the world, and the Ancient Corridor is one of them. This corridor isn't located within the Cloud Star but in the celestial river beyond the heavens!"
"At this moment, we are in the vast sea of stars. It seems we were swept here by the chaotic currents of the Great Dao. Truly unfortunate!"
Noticing Yi Feng's dazed expression, clearly overwhelmed, Fu Nantian continued with an increasingly grave tone.
"The Ancient Corridor is a mysterious passage connecting the Cloud Star to other star domains. It's extremely perilous, with countless legends surrounding it. Only true powerhouses can safely traverse it!"
Hearing this, Yi Feng asked with a mix of shock and curiosity, as if he had been thoroughly frightened.
"It's really that dangerous?!"
Fu Nantian nodded solemnly, a glint of anticipated satisfaction flashing in his eyes, his tone growing even more tense.
"Not just dangerous—it's a place where survival is nearly impossible!"
As expected, upon hearing this, Yi Feng's eyes widened in shock.
This kid really doesn't have much experience. Just hearing about an ancient secret realm beyond the Cloud Star has already stunned him, and now, upon learning of its extreme danger, he's completely terrified.
As long as I lead him into the Ancient Corridor and then display my formidable Saint-level cultivation, saving him from peril while subtly showcasing my abilities...
Hmph.
When I reveal my Saint-level power, won't he be overwhelmed with excitement and bow in reverence?
Everything is perfectly under control. The plan to reveal my true strength is flawless. Fu Nantian felt confident and continued to stoke the tension.
"The Ancient Corridor is a passage between star domains, filled with countless dangers and mazes. Only those with Saint-level cultivation can safely navigate it!"
After emphasizing the necessity of Saint-level cultivation, Fu Nantian adopted a reminiscent expression, describing the horrors of the corridor in vivid detail.
"Over a hundred thousand years ago, a great battle erupted here in the starry sky!"
"That battle was beyond the imagination of mortals. The Cloud Star and numerous other star domains participated in this epic conflict, a rare and unprecedented event in the annals of history!"
"Back then, the power of the Great Dao surged like chaotic currents, staining the celestial river with blood. Many dazzling geniuses perished, their paths cut short. Although some from the Cloud Star participated, they were but a handful, and those who could join were beings who stood above all living creatures!"
"After that battle, countless top-tier powerhouses fell, their remains scattered across the celestial river. Since then, the Ancient Corridor has been shrouded in terrifying killing intent, haunted by countless vengeful spirits. The dangers are immense, but so too are the unimaginable treasures left behind!"
"Over a hundred thousand years have passed, and many powerful beings have ventured into the starry sea, seeking their desires within the Ancient Corridor..."
As Fu Nantian's words echoed, Yi Feng listened with wide eyes.
Fu Nantian thought the kid was thoroughly frightened, feeling quite pleased with himself. He was already planning how to reveal his true strength in a spectacular manner.
But little did he know, Yi Feng wasn't scared at all. Instead, he was so excited that he was momentarily speechless.
Even without witnessing it firsthand, just hearing the legends, Yi Feng's mind was filled with vivid images, conjuring up a mysterious and terrifying path.
Looking out at the vast sea of stars, it felt like he was seeing a dream come true.
If it's really that dangerous, this is an opportunity! My repeated failures in seeking death might finally have a chance, and an even greater one at that!
If even countless powerhouses perished here, then if I enter, I'm sure to meet my end!
A light reignited in his heart, and Yi Feng suddenly found a new direction in life.
Gazing at the sea of stars, it felt like he was looking at paradise.
Without hesitation, Yi Feng eagerly asked, "Old man, do you know how to get to this Ancient Corridor?"
Hiss...!
Fu Nantian was taken aback, almost gasping in surprise.
Damn.
Ordinary cultivators would pale at the mention of the Ancient Corridor, but this kid? Not only is he not running away in fear, but he's also eager to give it a try.
I have to admit, his courage is truly remarkable!
This fearless attitude is beyond ordinary people. Even typical Saints would pale in comparison!
Those who walk the path of immortality must possess great courage and wisdom to reach the end. From this perspective, although this kid is a bit young and reckless, he's still a rare talent.
No wonder I took a liking to him!
After the initial surprise, Fu Nantian grew increasingly fond of Yi Feng. Despite his youth, the boy displayed extraordinary courage and boldness, reminiscent of his own younger days.
Seeing the eager anticipation in Yi Feng's eyes, Fu Nantian smiled.
Very well, since my disciple has such determination, as his master, I can no longer hold back. Even if we encounter danger later, I'll step in to save the day, ensuring his safety while broadening his horizons. At the same time, I'll secure this rare talent.
Killing two birds with one stone—what could be better?
Seeing the timing was right, Fu Nantian slowly removed his bamboo hat, placing one hand behind his back, revealing a profound and mysterious smile.
"I naturally know the way."
"Since you're interested in exploring the Ancient Corridor, I'll take you there to see it for yourself!"
Hearing this, Yi Feng looked surprised.
He wanted to die, but he definitely didn't want to drag anyone else into it. He still had some basic morals!
He quickly spoke up, his expression serious.
"Old man, don't do anything rash. Didn't you say the Ancient Corridor is extremely dangerous, and only Saints can safely traverse it?"
These words hit Fu Nantian right where he wanted.
The old man's demeanor suddenly changed, his head held high with pride.
"Indeed! I did say that. But since you, a junior, have the courage to explore, how can I stand by and do nothing?"
"Given the circumstances, I must reveal the truth."
As he spoke, he noticed Yi Feng's wide-eyed expression.
Fu Nantian slowly turned, a smile on his face, his eyes filled with anticipation as he stared at Yi Feng.
With a pointed finger, exuding an air of immortality, he declared, "Today, I shall reveal my true self."
"I have roamed the world for years, never showing my full capabilities, all to temper my mind. In truth, I am a Saint, an immensely powerful Saint!!!"
Fu Nantian gestured with his hand, his sleeves billowing, showcasing the most impressive side of himself, striving to embody the image of a transcendent being.
At this moment, all he needed was someone to paint this immortal scene, preserving it for eternity, to be revered by future generations!
Whether in demeanor or the grandeur of his words, he had reached the pinnacle. Even long-renowned Saints would struggle to match this transcendent aura.
With a pointed finger, as if dispelling the illusions of all living beings.
With a smile, as if seeing through the red dust of countless lifetimes!
His weathered face bore the marks of time, yet his cloudy eyes shone with a startling brilliance. Calmly revealing the truth, all to guide the younger generation!
Such grace!
Such reverence!
Fu Nantian's eyes gleamed, capturing every nuance of Yi Feng's expression, not missing a single detail, eagerly awaiting the expected shock and awe!
Fu Nantian had set the stage perfectly, his aura at its peak.
At this moment, his anticipation reached its limit!
Then, Yi Feng casually responded, showing no extra emotion, uttering just a single word, like an indifferent spectator.
"Oh."
Huh?
Fu Nantian was momentarily stunned, completely caught off guard.
One breath.
Two breaths.
Three breaths...
After a full ten breaths, he still hadn't seen any other reaction, not even an additional word.
The two stared at each other.
Seeing Yi Feng blink, his expression utterly indifferent.
Fu Nantian's mouth twitched, his expression slightly awkward.
His right hand behind his back, his left hand pointing forward, the stage fully set, his demeanor exuding grandeur, yet all he got in response was a single "Oh."
Where was the expected excitement?
Where was the anticipated awe?!
Why was there no extra reaction, just this one word?!
Was something wrong, or had the kid been scared stiff, not hearing him clearly...
Maintaining his stance, Fu Nantian's smile froze, suddenly unsure how to proceed. He could only press on, emphasizing once more.
"I, I am a Saint!"
This time, Yi Feng responded more quickly. After all, who wasn't a Saint these days?
"Mm."
His reply was crisp and straightforward.
His expression remained calm, his eyes blinking as if he had just heard something utterly mundane, not worth any extra reaction.
Fu Nantian was completely thrown off, his eyes widening in disbelief.
What kind of oddball is this kid?!
He just heard the words "Saint," and this is his reaction?
The grand display he had so carefully prepared had no effect. The kid just stared at him blankly, making the whole scene feel like a farce, utterly awkward!
Could it be that this kid has met a Saint before?
Perhaps he's been lucky enough to encounter one, but he surely doesn't know how terrifying a truly powerful Saint can be, which is why he's so indifferent.
It seems I'll have to show some real power.
Fu Nantian calmly retracted his left hand, his face not betraying any embarrassment, covering his discomfort with a cough.
"Ahem..."
"Now that you know my true cultivation level, if you wish to enter the Ancient Corridor, I will take you there and ensure your safety."
With that, Fu Nantian pointed towards the starry path ahead.
"See that? The vast sea of stars stretches endlessly, but there's only one entrance—where the power of the Great Dao surges forth."
Yi Feng followed his gaze.
Indeed, he saw a dark void amidst the endless sea of stars, strikingly conspicuous, as if pushed aside by an invisible force, with starlight unable to approach.
Seeing Yi Feng's attentive gaze, Fu Nantian regained some of his composure.
At the same time, he began to plot.
This kid has a steady mind and has repeatedly outsmarted me. I can't afford any more mistakes. Since revealing my cultivation didn't impress him, I'll have to step it up and show him the true extent of my power.
The best way is to let him face danger head-on, risking his life, so he realizes the limits of his own strength. Then, when I step in to save him, it'll have double the impact!
Recalling past missteps, especially the humiliation at the Poison Island, Fu Nantian had learned his lesson. He decided to let Yi Feng face danger alone.
With his plan set, Fu Nantian placed both hands behind his back and stepped forward.
"Kid, follow me to the Ancient Corridor!"
Yi Feng mimicked his steps.
Though they were in the sea of stars, it felt like walking on solid ground. The power of a Saint finally gave him a sense of relief and joy.
As they passed through the dark entrance, they soon found themselves amidst the stars.
The sky was filled with starlight, and beneath their feet, a path of multicolored starlight stretched out, creating the most wondrous scene imaginable. Just witnessing such a sight would be unforgettable!
But beauty often conceals danger, a natural truth that seemed to confirm the earlier tales, as if they were about to enter an unprecedented realm of peril.
If they could truly delve into the Ancient Corridor, Yi Feng might finally achieve his goal of death.
Following closely, Yi Feng's anticipation grew.
At the same time, as he watched the leisurely old man ahead, he began to plot.
Though this old man is eccentric, he seems kind-hearted, willing to guide me. But I'm determined to die and can't drag him into this.
How can I slip away and find danger on my own?
Yi Feng fell into deep thought, no longer paying attention to the starry corridor around him or where they were headed.
Meanwhile, Fu Nantian was also scheming.
I can't just blatantly throw him into danger; he'd see through it and ruin everything. How can I lose him and let him stumble into peril on his own...
The two exchanged a glance, each with their own thoughts.