CHAPTER 465: CHAPTER 256 GU SHENG IS IN DANGER THIS TIME_2

Dyson’s expression also changed drastically, sensing an unprecedented crisis.

He hurriedly activated the Dyson Sphere, attempting to locate Liu Ruhai’s presence, but his efforts were all in vain.

At that moment, Liu Ruhai’s voice suddenly rang in his ear:

"Brother Dyson, it seems your Dyson Sphere isn’t that impressive after all."

Dyson’s heart jolted in shock as he swiftly turned around, only to find Liu Ruhai standing behind him, the Sea Abyss Sword in his hand pointed directly at his throat.

"I... I’ve lost." Dyson forced out a bitter smile, fully aware that he had been defeated—defeated by the carefree yet composed young man before him.

The martial arts arena erupted with thunderous applause and cheers. The audience roared their excitement for Liu Ruhai’s victory, marveling at the imaginative duel that had just unfolded.

What is the Dyson Sphere? A treasure initially known as the True Qi Golden Ball Shield, a low-grade Mystical-level artifact obtained by Gu Sheng in the Crimson Cloud Abyss. Gu Sheng had gifted it to Dyson.

Recalling the modern astronomical concept of the Dyson Sphere, he whimsically renamed it to perfectly align with the remarkable artifact’s utility.

The martial arts tournament was in full swing, with disciples from the two sects and three schools showcasing their strengths. Blade lights and soaring sword qi intertwined with dazzling spells, forming a breathtaking scene.

And yet, no one expected that during the intermission, Emperor Yun Wu of Da Liang would suddenly propose a surprise musical performance—specifically requesting Gu Sheng to sing the patriotic anthem "Loyalty to the Nation."

The emperor had heard Princess Zishuang mention that Gu Sheng’s rendition of the song was akin to the ultimate rallying call for citizens.

Hence, today, no matter what, Gu Sheng had to deliver a performance.

It would surely serve a greater purpose in the future!

Faced with the emperor’s decree, Gu Sheng had no choice but to comply.

Gu Sheng, a disciple of the Holy Pill Sect, was not only advanced in cultivation but also exceptionally talented.

Now, as he stood atop the martial arts arena, confronted by the puzzled gazes of onlookers, he could only brace himself for this unexpected task.

The notes of an ancient zither began to echo, and Gu Sheng opened his mouth to sing: "The beacon fires rise, gazing northward upon the land; dragon riders surge, horses whinny, sword qi as cold as frost..."

His voice seemed imbued with an enchanting magic, transporting everyone present to an ancient battlefield far beyond the confines of the present.

Under the infusion of Gu Sheng’s spiritual energy, the Illusion Spirit Zither conjured awe-inspiring imagery.

The crowd seemingly bore witness to a desolate battlefield of antiquity—beacon smoke billowing, armored cavalry like dragons, blade sparks flashing, and frost-like gleams cutting through the air.

Watching this, the audience’s blood surged with passion, as if they themselves had transformed into indefatigable warriors charging for national glory.

"Gu Sheng is truly gifted!" an audience member remarked admiringly.

"I can’t believe I truly saw an ancient battlefield!" another exclaimed, astonished.

"Gu Sheng’s artistry is nothing short of masterful."

The crowd erupted into animated discussion, their admiration for Gu Sheng clearly unwavering.

Even Emperor Yun Wu was wholly entranced, momentarily casting aside the dignity and decorum of imperial authority. He voiced his approval loudly:

"Gu Sheng is as mighty as an army of millions!"

Princess Zishuang stood among the throng. Her gaze remained fixed upon Gu Sheng.

She observed her father’s high praise for him, along with the proud, spirited elegance he displayed upon the stage.

A ripple stirred within her heart—curiosity and interest started to bloom regarding Gu Sheng.

"This young man indeed has talent," Princess Zishuang mused internally. "But to win him over won’t be such a simple task."

Upon the conclusion of the martial arts tournament, disciples of various sects and schools swiftly delved into spirited conversation.

"Gu Sheng’s voice—it’s sharper than any blade!" praised a disciple of the Mad Saber Sect.

"Hmph, singing amounts to nothing! In terms of true power, you must look to our Giant Sword Sect’s swordsmanship!"

A disciple from the Giant Sword Sect countered defiantly.

"Don’t argue—Gu Sheng’s Illusion Spirit Zither is a secret treasure of the Holy Pill Sect; that’s beyond ordinary comparison."

A disciple from the Thousand Poison Sect interjected.

"Still, his unruly temperament may not be so easy to handle."

A member of the Governor Mansion remarked thoughtfully.

Discussion buzzed incessantly, as disciples from various sects fixated their attention on Gu Sheng.

Gu Sheng himself, however, remained indifferent to their chatter. His sole focus was upon martial arts, living authentically, and striving toward higher realms.

Princess Zishuang also focused on Gu Sheng.

She understood that to win him over would demand significant effort and patience.

Undaunted, she drew upon her firm resolve and ambition, convinced that success was attainable.

Seizing opportunities during intermissions of the tournament, Princess Zishuang began deliberately approaching Gu Sheng.

Using her royal pedigree, she extended invitations to him for banquets and sought ways to engage further with him.

Though slightly perplexed, Gu Sheng ultimately accepted her invitation.

At the banquet, Princess Zishuang showcased her elegance and allure.

Engaging in lively banter with Gu Sheng, she skillfully sought to bridge the gap between them.

Gu Sheng, however, appeared unaffected, keeping a polite yet cautious distance.

"Brother Gu Sheng, your talent is truly admirable," Princess Zishuang said, smiling.

"You flatter me, Your Highness," Gu Sheng responded coolly.

"I wonder if Brother Gu Sheng might be interested in joining our Governor Mansion?"

Without hesitation, Princess Zishuang extended her invitation.

Gu Sheng frowned slightly, clearly not anticipating such directness from her.

After a brief silence, he gently declined, "Thank you for your kind offer, Princess, but I am already a disciple of the Holy Pill Sect and cannot betray my sect."

Princess Zishuang did not give up; she knew this required time and perseverance.

Resolving to approach things differently, she began interacting with Gu Sheng’s companions and relatives to understand his preferences and character, seeking methods to win him over.

In the days that followed, Princess Zishuang repeatedly made her presence known to Gu Sheng.

Through acts of kindness and sincerity, she gradually warmed his heart, cultivating faint favor in his view.

Even so, Gu Sheng maintained a degree of vigilance and distance, unsure of her true intentions and motives.

Throughout this process, Princess Zishuang uncovered insights into Gu Sheng’s inner world and upbringing.

Seeing the struggles and sacrifices he endured and his unwavering pursuit of martial arts and faith only fortified her determination and confidence in winning him over.

"Brother Gu Sheng, I understand your commitment and beliefs," Princess Zishuang said earnestly, her gaze unyielding and tender,

"but I am certain that if we work together, we can create a far more brilliant future.

I am willing to stand shoulder to shoulder with you, together reaching the pinnacle of martial arts."

Gu Sheng looked at Princess Zishuang’s firm expression and steadfast determination, feeling an unspoken warmth well up in his heart.

There stood a girl of ambition and resolve, fearlessly pursuing her dreams.

For now, Gu Sheng preferred to let these sentiments remain ambiguous.

He would play things by ear when the time arrived.

"Your Highness, I am willing to strive alongside you toward the pinnacle of martial arts." Gu Sheng finally spoke.

Princess Zishuang’s face lit up with radiance upon hearing his response.

"Next match: Holy Pill Sect’s Mo Buwen versus Haoyang Sect’s Lin Qingyu."

"Upcoming bout: Mad Saber Sect’s Zeng Mengbiao against Giant Sword Sect’s Gongsun Ao."

"Following fight: Thousand Poison Sect’s Baili Piaoxue against Qian family’s Qian Duoduo."

...

As match after match progressed, the tournament reached its climactic pinnacle—the duel between two titans.

The celestial dome above the Imperial Armory Arena ruptured with resplendent glows, turning the dueling ground into the focus for all factions.

The showdown between disciples of Haoyang Sect and Holy Pill Sect was akin to the collision of two dazzling stars, igniting boundless excitement and anticipation among the crowd.

Gu Sheng, Holy Pill Sect’s peak Golden Bone Realm powerhouse, wielded the top-grade Mystical-level Jade Maiden Sword, his figure seemingly shrouded in golden light, exuding the supreme majesty of the Ancient Sacred Body.

Opposite him was Lin Tianhao, Haoyang Sect’s Second Layer Heaven expert of the Marrow Refining Realm. Similarly, he held an exquisite Jade Maiden Sword, his sword-like brows and sparkling eyes brimming with unrelenting vigor.

"Hmph! Gu Sheng may be strong, but Lin Tianhao surpasses him in a whole realm. His mastery of Haoyang Swordsmanship will surely claim victory today and erase past humiliation!"

A Mad Saber Sect disciple declared with cold venom, clearly harboring animosity toward Gu Sheng.

"Ridiculous! Gu Sheng’s physical might alone can crush steel—let alone Lin Tianhao!"

A female Holy Pill Sect disciple retorted, her gaze filled with admiration.

The battle erupted in an instant, their figures weaving through the air as dazzling sword lights collided. Gu Sheng’s Gale Swordsmanship was as relentless as a storm, while Lin Tianhao’s Haoyang Swordsmanship blazed like a scorching sun.

In the arena, sword qi filled the space, with golden brilliance illuminating the heavens and earth, saturating everything in the hues of combat.

"Gu Sheng, your Ancient Sacred Body is indeed extraordinary, but to defeat me, you’ll need to strive even harder!"

Lin Tianhao’s gaze burned with unwavering resolve, each swing of his sword tearing through the air with ferocious might.