There was no avoiding it.
For those who had lived long enough, like the Old Celestial Master, who was nearing the end of his lifespan as a Land Immortal, further breakthroughs in strength were unlikely to yield significant benefits. Even if they succeeded, it wouldn’t grant them many additional years of life.
At this stage, their focus naturally shifted to other pursuits, such as teaching disciples.
Otherwise, why would they take on so many students? Googlᴇ search novel(ꜰ)ire.net
To be fair, these Land Immortals were excellent teachers.
Take Li Changsheng, for example. His three disciples—Li Hanyi, the Snow Moon Sword Immortal; Baili Dongjun, the Wine Immortal; and Sikong Changfeng, the Spear Immortal—were all top-tier Heaven-Man experts.
Similarly, Xiaoyaozi’s disciples, despite their internal conflicts, included extraordinary figures like Wu Yazi, Li Qiushui, and Tianshan Tonglao, all of whom were first-rate Heaven-Man experts.
Until today, they had been quite proud of their achievements.
But after witnessing Ning Changge’s gifts and his incredible abilities, they couldn’t help but feel envious.
Zhang Sanfeng’s laughter grew even more exuberant.
“You flatter me, my friends. Changge still has a long road ahead of him.”
The admiration of peers at the same level was the most gratifying kind, and even someone as composed as Zhang Sanfeng couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride.
Ning Changge shook his head with a smile.
As long as his master was happy, that was all that mattered. A centenary celebration came only once in a lifetime—it had to be grand.
With the gifts presented, the guests on Tianzhu Peak were still immersed in the awe of what they had witnessed.
The gifts from Wudang’s disciples had truly opened their eyes.
The Seven Stars Daoist Robe and the Spirit Monkey’s Whisk were already extraordinary treasures. But Ning Changge’s Monument of Ten Thousand Swords and the Celestial Star Pagoda Sword Formation were on an entirely different level, surpassing everyone’s expectations.
In fact, the most discussed topic was the power of the Pagoda Sword Formation.
Only experts at the Heaven-Man realm or higher could vaguely sense the killing intent and sharpness it radiated. Others could only speculate based on the phenomena Ning Changge had displayed.
Of course, there would be no definitive answer.
The Mountain-Protecting Formation was a trump card, not something to be used lightly.
The world would only witness its power if someone dared to attack Wudang.
Song Yuanqiao, observing the endless discussions among the guests, felt a surge of pride.
By this point, the centenary celebration was essentially a resounding success. The guests had been thoroughly impressed, and the food and drink had been more than satisfying. Now, only one segment remained: martial exchanges.
As a sect rooted in the martial world, Wudang was also a Daoist holy land.
With heroes from across the world gathered here, it was only natural to engage in martial exchanges.
This served not only to celebrate Zhang Sanfeng’s birthday but also to create legendary battles that would be remembered in history. Wudang had no reason to refuse.
Initially, this segment had been a source of concern for Song Yuanqiao.
Not everyone was pleased with Wudang’s growing prominence. Some might use this opportunity to challenge Wudang’s disciples, attempting to overshadow them. If Wudang’s disciples suffered too many defeats, Zhang Sanfeng’s celebration could turn into a laughingstock.
This was unavoidable unless Zhang Sanfeng chose not to hold the celebration at all.
But now, Song Yuanqiao felt much more at ease.
Ning Changge’s establishment of the Monument of Ten Thousand Swords and the Celestial Star Pagoda Sword Formation had undoubtedly deterred troublemakers. Anyone considering a challenge would now think twice.
With this in mind, Song Yuanqiao stepped forward and laughed heartily.
“Fellow martial artists, we are deeply grateful for your presence here today to celebrate my master’s birthday!”
“The martial world is rooted in combat, so it is only fitting that today’s celebration concludes with martial exchanges. I, Song Yuanqiao, will take the lead. Anyone wishing to test their skills is welcome to step forward. My master and the esteemed seniors present may also offer guidance!”
“Don’t miss this rare opportunity!”
This arrangement had, of course, been approved by the Land Immortals.
As Song Yuanqiao finished speaking, the crowd’s eyes lit up.
Guidance from Land Immortals was a rare and invaluable opportunity. In an instant, many were eager to participate, especially the Heaven-Man experts.
However, Song Yuanqiao was a Heaven-Man expert himself, and not just anyone could challenge him.
Fortunately, the gathering was filled with experts.
“I, Xiao Feng, humbly request to spar with Master Song!” A tall, imposing figure stepped forward—it was Xiao Feng, the leader of the Beggar’s Sect.
“Master Xiao, please!” Song Yuanqiao replied courteously.
The two exchanged pleasantries before beginning their duel. Xiao Feng, known for his mastery of the Eighteen Dragon Subduing Palms, had recently entered the Heaven-Man realm. Song Yuanqiao, on the other hand, wielded martial arts created by Ning Changge, which were no less formidable than Xiao Feng’s techniques.
Though Xiao Feng’s combat prowess was extraordinary, Song Yuanqiao’s sword provided him with an edge. Without it, he might have struggled to hold his own.
The duel was a friendly exchange, meant to test their skills rather than determine a victor.
After a brief but intense bout, the two separated. Xiao Feng, his face glowing with excitement, was deeply impressed.
He had initially believed that the Seven Heroes of Wudang relied on their sword formation for their strength. But this duel had completely overturned his perception.
Even Song Yuanqiao alone was a formidable force!
The crowd was full of admiration.
The Seven Heroes of Wudang alone were enough to secure the sect’s place in the martial world. Compared to the now-defunct Shaolin of the Ming Dynasty, Wudang was far superior.