(I had just gotten back and finished updating yesterday when some guys from work dragged me out drinking. I collapsed as soon as I got home. I'll make up yesterday's missed updates today. Sorry!)
"I want to enter the competition to hone my combat skills and divine abilities!" Li Xiaoya voiced his thoughts, but kept another thought to himself: If I can really show what I'm capable of in the competition, my reputation will improve a lot, and Master will look much better too!
"Oh, I have other arrangements for that," Heavenly Venerable Daoling said, expressing his disapproval.
"Why?" Li Xiaoya asked in disappointment.
"Even if you hadn't brought it up, I was planning to have you train in magical combat and divine abilities. After all, in the Cultivation World, strength reigns supreme, and the dangers of magical conflict lurk everywhere!" Heavenly Venerable Daoling rose as he spoke. "But the best training comes from life-and-death battles. I originally intended to begin teaching you next month, but since you've brought it up today, we might as well start now!"
"Yes, Master!" Li Xiaoya was unwilling a hundred times over, but could think of no reason to object. His reply came out listlessly.
"Come with me!" Ignoring his demeanor, Heavenly Venerable Daoling led the way out.
"Yes!" Li Xiaoya hurried after him.
Heavenly Venerable Daoling led Li Xiaoya across the hall and into a passage. After they had walked a little over a hundred zhang, light suddenly appeared at the end. Stepping out, Li Xiaoya was stunned by the sight before him. A small valley lay surrounded by mountains, filled with exotic flowers and rare plants, little bridges over flowing streams, curious peaks and strange rocks, and towering, resplendent palaces. It looked like an immortal paradise in the mortal world. Beyond this