Chapter 880: The Proposition
Chapter 880: The Proposition
In the evening, Elder Zheng returned to Qian Dao City. A few old friends came to see him off, expressing their mixed feelings. Some lamented his departure, while others, with a sense of reluctance, invited him to serve as a guest elder in their respective families or sects.
Elder Zheng politely declined each offer.
After the farewell feast, they parted ways.
Elder Zheng returned to his residence, closed his eyes to rest, and took a brief respite.
When the time came, he packed all his treasures, array books, and array diagrams, then left the cave where he had lived for decades without looking back, heading out of the city.
He boarded a carriage and left the city. After about an hour, he arrived at the Yun Du Ferry in Qianxue State.
By taking this ferry and transferring three times, it would take about a month to reach Zhen State.
Elder Zheng had no lingering attachments, but as he took his first steps to leave, a sudden sense of concern washed over him.
The young brother he had encountered earlier that day, his face and voice, reappeared in his mind.
Elder Zheng felt a wave of emotion.
In the bustling, fame-chasing Qianxue State, there were still such sincere and talented individuals from humble backgrounds.
His previous judgment had been too hasty.
The ferry's horn sounded, signaling its imminent departure.
Elder Zheng took a step forward but suddenly stopped.
"Once I step onto the deck and leave Qian State, I may never return in this lifetime..."
Elder Zheng's steps faltered, and he felt a sudden unease, as if he would miss something important if he left now.
He furrowed his brow, hesitated for a long time, and finally sighed.
"Fine, I'll stay a few more days. I'll watch this year's Array Debate Conference before leaving. Zhen State is far away, and a few more days won't make much difference..."
With this thought, Elder Zheng felt much lighter.
He raised his head and saw the bright moon hanging in the sky, its clear light illuminating the earth, accompanied by a gentle breeze.
...
Time passed, and another day went by.
Tomorrow was the Array Debate Conference.
At this moment, in a grand, enclosed hall on Dao Mountain, a group of array elders were gathered to set the propositions for the upcoming conference.
The elders present were all distinguished third- or fourth-rank array masters from the major sects in Qianxue State.
Although the sects often competed and had conflicts, the status of array masters was relatively independent, forming a unique circle that was sometimes less constrained by sectarian rivalries.
Moreover, setting the propositions for the Array Debate Conference was a significant matter, and no one dared to slack off or bring personal grudges to the table.
Therefore, the atmosphere in the hall was quite harmonious.
They discussed and selected appropriate arrays to serve as the "exam questions" for this year's conference.
To avoid any conflicts of interest, the chief examiner for this year was a Feathered Realm array master from the Dao Court's Tian Shu Pavilion, known as Master Wen.
Although Tian Shu Pavilion was part of the Dao Court, it only oversaw array matters and was relatively neutral compared to the central authority of the Dao Court.
Master Wen himself was from Qianxue State, and his array skills were widely recognized, making him a suitable and credible chief examiner.
Under Master Wen's leadership, the proposition process was proceeding in an orderly manner.
"This Yi Wood Gen Mountain Array is good; we can use it as a question..."
"The Li Fire Arrays with more than sixteen patterns are too aggressive and should not be encouraged. Moreover, if drawn incorrectly, they can easily cause accidents and disrupt the conference."
"Agreed. These are still sect disciples, and we should focus on cultivating their character and understanding the Dao, or perhaps test some defensive arrays..."
"That's not entirely correct. We should still test killing arrays. Array masters are often weak in practical combat, and not testing killing arrays could leave them vulnerable in the future."
"Those are small-scale battles. Setting up an array in a one-on-one fight is too time-consuming and cumbersome, putting array masters at a disadvantage."
"But large-scale battles are different. In such battles, everything must be meticulously planned, from forging armor to arranging troops. This is the true stage for array masters."
"Hundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousands of people, under the enhancement of arrays, can form a mighty force, invincible and unstoppable..."
"You're getting ahead of yourself. These are still young disciples; how can they command such large forces?"
"You have a point. Besides, these disciples are precious to their families; few will actually risk their lives in battle."
"Then why do they learn arrays? To learn and not use them? To show off?"
"That's too extreme..."
"How is that extreme?"
"Enough, enough, everyone, let's focus on the task at hand," someone interjected.
"You're right; arguing won't help. We need to consider the propositions..."
"I think we should have an equal split," one elder suggested, "half killing arrays and half production arrays."
"Too many. I think a 40-50 split is better. Forty percent for killing and trapping arrays, fifty percent for production arrays, and the remaining ten percent for arrays with more complex theoretical elements."
"Then, which specific arrays should we test? We've been using the same array diagrams over and over again."
"We, as proposition setters, are familiar with them, but we must consider the disciples, many of whom are just learning these arrays."
"That's true..."
"But we do need some variety."
"How about adding some new variations?" an elder proposed.
"What new variations? If they're too advanced, it might be difficult for the disciples. If they get nervous and can't draw them, we'll be cursed by them, and the ancestors of their families and sects might have complaints..."
"That's a valid concern..."
"Add some array variations?"
"I don't think that's a good idea," another elder said. "We're old hands with years of experience and have seen many array variations."
"These disciples are different. They are young, with lifespans that are mere fractions of ours, and they haven't had much time to practice arrays. They might only know one or two basic forms. Testing array variations would be too difficult for them."
"But the sect has already reformed. Our Array Debate Congress can't remain unchanged, right? Let's just make a slight adjustment. We can test one or two variations of the array formations."
"Besides, the competition allows for some mistakes. If one fails to draw three formations, they lose. So, even if they miss one or two, it's not a big deal."
"I still think it's too difficult."
"Don't overthink it. Don't forget, this is the Qianxue Province, where geniuses are abundant."
"To excel in the Array Debate Congress, one must have genuine talent."
"Let's proceed this way. We'll select a few formations first, and then have Master Wen review them. He will make the final decision..."
"Agreed."
...
They were merely expressing their opinions.
However, the final decision rested with Master Wen, the chief examiner.
Following the rules and the ideas they had discussed, they began selecting the questions one by one, starting from the Sixteen-Line Formation.
The Array Debate Congress begins with the Sixteen-Line Formation.
It's a threshold, designed to eliminate those who don't meet the standard.
If a participant can't even reach the Sixteen-Line Formation, they don't have the right to compete with the array geniuses from various sects.
Those who pass the Sixteen-Line Formation can secure a certain ranking.
Though not high, it still contributes to their sect.
After the Sixteen-Line Formation, each additional line becomes increasingly difficult.
Each line represents a significant hurdle, capable of filtering out many participants.
Especially towards the end, the difference between the Eighteenth and Nineteenth-Line Formations is vast.
Very few disciples can draw up to the Nineteenth Line.
In the Hall of Array Debate, the array elders were either deep in thought, flipping through scrolls, or agonizing over their choices, carefully selecting the formations.
According to the rules, they first listed the formations, then filtered them, and finally presented them to Master Wen for his approval.
Master Wen would then finalize the questions and seal them in a jade slip.
This way, the selection was done by the elders, while the final decision was made by Master Wen.
The process was fair for all.
All of this had to be completed the night before the Array Debate Congress, and the elders would not leave until the congress concluded, ensuring no leaks.
Time slowly passed.
The selection and finalization of questions began with the Sixteen-Line Formation and gradually increased in difficulty...
After an unknown amount of time, they were finally drawing to a close.
However, when it came to selecting the final question, the one that went beyond the Nineteenth Line and was nearly at the peak of the Foundation Establishment stage, meant to "cap" the exam, Master Wen became indecisive.
He was torn between several formations, looking left and right, unable to make up his mind.
Everyone waited in silence.
But after a long time, Master Wen still hadn't decided.
One of the elders smiled and said, "Master Wen, is this your first time as the chief examiner?"
Master Wen, a middle-aged man with a gentle demeanor and a reputation for seriousness, nodded, "Yes, it is."
The elder then said, "Master Wen, you don't need to worry too much about the final question. It's mainly a safeguard, a bottom line. For many years, no one has been able to draw this formation..."
"Not just the final question, but even the few Nineteenth-Line Formations before it, are rarely completed by the disciples."
"You must understand, most of these disciples are in the later stages of the Foundation Establishment, and very few are at the peak."
"Their divine consciousness can barely reach the Eighteenth or Nineteenth Line. That's already quite remarkable."
"Moreover, this is a 'major exam.'"
"Starting from the Sixteen-Line Formation, drawing all the way up, is a test of their Dao heart, divine consciousness, and perseverance. They also have to endure the pressure of being watched by everyone. The further they go, the more exhausting and difficult it becomes."
"These disciples, most of whom come from noble families, are pampered and can hardly endure such a challenge."
"To be able to complete one or two Nineteenth-Line Formations from start to finish is already a rare feat."
"Let alone reaching the final question."
Master Wen asked, "Has no one ever done it?"
"Never," the elder replied.
Another elder, older and experienced in array formations, added, "The 'cap' formation has a special purpose."
"This question isn't for testing but to remind the disciples that there are always higher mountains and broader skies. The world of formations is vast and boundless. They can never finish drawing all the formations, and many they will never learn."
"As array masters, they must remain humble and avoid arrogance. They must always strive to climb higher."
"Therefore, the final formation can be any difficult one. There's no need to overthink it."
Master Wen, always meticulous, nodded.
However, his perfectionism and a bit of OCD made him hesitate. He couldn't do things "randomly." He always had principles, and even with a choice, he would still agonize over it.
This delay cost them another incense stick's time.
Everyone watched him silently.
Master Wen, realizing his indecision, felt a bit embarrassed.
But he couldn't be "random." After some thought, he decided that since the final formation was beyond the disciples' reach and served as a "cap," the criterion should simply be "difficult."
The hardest part of array formations lies in the Dao.
He chose the most profound and obscure formation, one that even involved the fundamental changes of spiritual energy, and included it in the exam.
With this, the selection of questions was complete.
Master Wen reviewed everything from start to finish and sealed all the "questions" with a seal pattern.
The Array Debate Congress questions were now finalized.
Everyone was relieved.
"Finally, it's done..."
"We can rest now."
"The final session of the Array Debate Congress is tomorrow. After that, the congress will conclude."
"Array formations are the most straightforward. You either know them or you don't."
"Tomorrow, the competition will be stable. Once it's over, everything will be settled, and we won't have to worry anymore."
"Actually, it’s pretty much over now."
...
As everyone chatted, they walked out.
Wen Master, the chief examiner, said, "Thank you all for your hard work. I’ve brought some wine from Daozhou and arranged for a top-notch spirit feast. Please do me the honor of enjoying this fine wine and delicious food to ease your fatigue."
Though it was his first time as a chief examiner, he still understood the social graces.
And no one present would refuse the face of a formation master from the Heavenly Pivot Pavilion.
Under normal circumstances, they wouldn’t even have the chance to socialize with this Wen Master.
Moreover, after a busy day, drinking some wine to relieve their fatigue was the best thing they could ask for.
Everyone clasped their hands and said, "Wen Master, you’re too kind."
"Very well, then, I’ll trouble you, Wen Master."
"Politeness is less important than compliance."
"Wen Master’s kindness, we couldn’t ask for more..."
Thus, Wen Master called for people to set up a feast in a side hall, and everyone toasted and chatted about formation techniques and amusing anecdotes.
After the feast, everyone returned to their rooms to rest.
The night was peaceful, the moon serene.
Everyone slept soundly, unaware of what they would experience the next day...
...
After a night’s rest, the next day dawned.
A faint light of dawn shone upon the Grand Void Mountain.
Mo Hua, who had practiced formation techniques all night in the disciples’ quarters, opened his clear eyes, reflecting the light of the rising sun was important.
Today was the day of the Dao Discussion Conference.
And he was about to set off to participate in the grand array competition.
Before leaving, he specially visited the elders’ quarters and consulted with Mr. Xun, asking, "Mr. Xun, is there anything else I should pay special attention to?"
"No need."
Mr. Xun replied.
At this point, there wasn’t much else to be cautious about.
Mo Hua, however, felt a bit nervous.
After all, it was the Dao Discussion Conference, a grand event on such a large scale that he had never participated in before, so he naturally felt a bit anxious.
Seeing this, Mr. Xun said, "Just remain composed. Don’t be elated by victory or disheartened by defeat. Show some depth, and don’t worry about anything else. Just focus on drawing the formations."
"Just drawing the formations?"
"Yes," Mr. Xun nodded, "keep drawing until the end."
Mo Hua pondered for a moment and nodded, "Alright, Mr. Xun, I understand."
"Go on then." Mr. Xun said.
"Yes." Mo Hua bowed and set off.
Mr. Xun watched Mo Hua’s back, a glimmer of light appearing in his cloudy eyes.
This day had finally arrived...
...
Mo Hua left the Grand Void Sect and headed straight for the Dao Discussion Mountain.
This was also Mr. Xun’s instruction, to go silently and alone.
Upon reaching the Dao Discussion Mountain, he saw a grand scene, with people like a flood and horses like a flowing dragon.
Many cultivators gathered at the Dao Discussion Mountain, creating a grand spectacle.
But compared to the Sword Discussion Conference, this scene was actually smaller.
The Sword Discussion Conference was a true sword and spell duel, with sword and spear winds, water and fire spells, superior Dao techniques, and intense battles, making it highly entertaining.
Regardless of their cultivation level, those who enjoyed the spectacle found it thrilling, and those who understood the deeper aspects found it insightful.
However, the Dao Discussion Conference for alchemy, formations, talismans, and artifacts was different. The content was dry and, if one didn’t understand the nuances, it often seemed uninteresting.
Especially formations.
Formations were dry and profound.
Most cultivators who didn’t understand formations found abstract array patterns headache-inducing. Watching cultivators draw formations would naturally seem extremely boring to them.
But this was the Qianxue Province, with a long-standing tradition, and most disciples had some understanding of formations.
Moreover, this was the final event of the Dao Discussion Conference, crucial for determining the ranking of the sects.
Therefore, the number of cultivators who came to watch was not small.
At this moment, these cultivators were all held outside.
They couldn’t enter immediately.
The disciples participating in the Dao Discussion Conference would enter the Dao Discussion Mountain first.
Mo Hua was among these disciples.
In his hand, he held a Dao Discussion Jade Slip given to him by Mr. Xun. This Jade Slip represented a place in the Dao Discussion, and it was a direct invitation, bypassing all preliminary exams.
This place was very precious.
Since the Dao Discussion Conference was dry and lacked entertainment value, the process had been streamlined this time.
Some selections were prepared in advance.
There were various thresholds for selection, such as cultivation level, array master rank, elder recommendations, and preliminary exams.
This ensured that only the elites of each sect could participate in the Dao Discussion Conference.
Mo Hua’s “place” allowed him to bypass these cumbersome processes and directly participate in the final “Array Grand Exam.”
Each sect would only give a few of these places.
Sects ranked lower might not even get one.
Mo Hua held this heavy Jade Slip and entered the Dao Discussion Mountain with the queue.
At the mountain entrance, elders checked each person, confirming their credentials before allowing them to pass.
The long queue was solemn and quiet, moving slowly forward.
When it was Mo Hua’s turn, he stepped forward and handed the Dao Discussion Jade Slip to the elder checking credentials.
The elder was clearly taken aback upon seeing Mo Hua, taking the Jade Slip from his hand with a doubtful look, verifying it several times, and even calling others to check it again, still finding it hard to believe.
In the end, he shook his head, letting Mo Hua in, though he couldn’t help but think:
"What is the Grand Void Sect doing, completely giving up? Sending any disciple to the Dao Discussion Conference..."
Mo Hua didn’t think much about it, his face calm as he entered the Dao Discussion Mountain.
An hour later, all the disciples participating in the Dao Discussion Conference entered the venue.
Only then did the gates of the Dao Discussion Mountain open wide.
The nobles and sect leaders, as well as cultivators from various sects and disciples, poured in like a flood, entering the Dao Discussion Mountain.
(End of Chapter)
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