Diligence System: From Servant to Martial King

The principle of the "ingenious artifact" seems novel and peculiar at first glance. In reality, it operates subtly in accordance with the principles of heaven and earth. Just like how humans survive in the world due to the presence of water, food, and the alternation of day and night... If there were deficiencies in the heavens and earth, like rivers drying up overnight, it would result in devastation and countless deaths.

The principle of the "ingenious artifact" follows this logic. Components and jade core form a complete world, creating a cycle and mutual understanding of principles. It can then be executed without hindrance.

A finely crafted "ingenious artifact" embodies the principles of heaven and earth, which are immensely profound. It resembles martial arts in its subtle craftsmanship. However, the "ingenious artifact" relies on the jade core, which depends on Jade City’s geography.

Therefore... once the ingenious artifact leaves Jade City, it loses its purpose. Li Xian, upon hearing a few words, began to understand the ingenious artifact. This path is vast, and pondering it alone, there is little hope of achieving mastery.

Zhao Ranran, troubled by the matter of the Jingyao Divine Bird, felt inexplicably irritated. After a cursory glance, she left Jade Pillar Mountain.

Zhao Ranran gently stroked the Jingyao Divine Bird and suddenly thought, "After Li Xian’s death, could he have turned into a fierce ghost and is now haunting me? Otherwise, why would Xiaojing’s injury relapse? Is this entanglement of fate referring to this? Should I seek an exorcist to drive him away?"

Recently, her travels in the Jianghu have been full of excitement. She had almost put this matter out of her mind, but today it was unexpectedly stirred up again, causing her emotions to become tumultuous once more. She began her sword dance gracefully, her swordsmanship was seamless and had reached the state of "peak." A few meters away, there was a water altar. She flicked the point of her sword and drew a water line in the air, sketching randomly.

At times she drew lines and circles, at other times strokes and dots. Eventually, she created the outline of a masterpiece. She continued to perform her swordsmanship. The water painting gradually glowed, as if adding ink and colors, leaping vividly before her.

The painting depicted endless mountains and valleys, mist drifting, flocks of birds embracing the phoenix, and layers of green peaks. The artwork reflected a person’s innermost thoughts. Zhao Ranran’s painting was indeed exquisite and grand, but the mountains were shrouded in fog, the flocks of birds hidden among the clouds. The phoenix rested deep in the forest, where the towering green peaks dominated the scene.

Her heart was as if enveloped in mist. Suddenly, she heard footsteps approaching. Zhao Ranran waved her hand dismissively, and the water painting fell back into the water jar. Tai Shun Chunfeng said, "Ranmei, have you any thoughts on the matter of Willing Death Valley?"

Zhao Ranran replied, "I do not favor such conflicts." Tai Shun Chunfeng said, "Though I am somewhat connected with the Su family, the extravagant style of Jade City is, in fact, quite contrary to the simple elegance of Daoxuan Mountain. But regarding the matter of the Willing Death Valley, I am somewhat eager to partake."

Zhao Ranran frowned. Tai Shun Chunfeng openly confessed, "I have some desire for competition. As men of our time, how can we not compete? But... every time the Willing Death Valley results in heavy casualties. The defeated are often beheaded and hung as trophies. I think... if I am victorious, I would spare their lives. In doing so, it would be considered saving lives and promoting kindness."

Zhao Ranran clasped her hands and said, "Brother Chun Feng, I regard your character highly. But... in such a perilous place, if there is danger, what should be done?"

Tai Shun Chunfeng asked, "Are you worried about me, Ranmei?" Zhao Ranran said, "This matter is uncontrollable. The waters of Jade City run deep; one must be cautious."

Tai Shun Chunfeng laughed, "Naturally. Jade City is but a passing place; at the appropriate time, I will retreat and leave with you. In such a manner, would Ranmei be willing to support me?"

Zhao Ranran originally did not want to get involved, but suddenly she thought that this was a "mortal combat," and a pair of resolute eyes emerged in her mind. She wanted to see if the eyes of those forced into a corner and betting on life and death were just as determined and unyielding, calm and composed.

She then said, "Very well! I will go."

...

Meanwhile, on the other side,

"Biao De," upon realizing he missed an opportunity, was furious. After Zhao Ranran left, he vented his rage by smashing many objects around him.

When he saw "Xiao Cui" again, he angrily questioned the reason for the "handkerchief." Xiao Cui flatly denied it, and only later did Biao De realize that he had been covertly plotted against. He immediately turned his hostility towards fighting with several major forces.

Li Xian, hiding in the shadows, although unable to escape at that moment, found another way out. He then devised means to gather information, using all his abilities, and vaguely learned the location of the "Willing Death Valley."

The Willing Death Valley is a venue for mortal combat, where one fights with human strength against tigers, wolves, strange beasts, and other humans... a place to release one’s bloodthirsty nature and seek great fortune amidst danger. Despite the scholarly and well-dressed visitors of Jade City, there exists such a place for unleashing their wild side.

Li Xian patiently awaited the right moment, determined to participate in the mortal combat of Willing Death Valley, to eliminate all debts and regain his freedom.