Journey to the West: Demon Emperor: Beginning as a Little Toad

Chapter 535 Martial Arts Sparring, Black-Tasseled Spear

The story of Yang Guo, the "Yang Guo" of Yang Guo Mountain, and Kang Jinlongnu, the "Little Dragon Girl," is a long one.

In Yang Guoshan's memory, the past events about the Heavenly Soldiers' promotion assessment were still vivid.

At that time, Yang Guoshan was still an Ironclad Heavenly Soldier, but through his unremitting efforts, his strength continued to improve. At the same time, he accumulated enough "Heavenly Blessing Points" and finally got the opportunity to be promoted to Silver-Armored Heavenly Soldier.

This should have been a joyous occasion, but unexpectedly, it was thwarted by a heavenly general surnamed Ji.

A celestial general surnamed Ji, who held some minor power in the Heavenly Court's Fighting Department, heard about Yang Guoshan's promotion and hatched a wicked plan. He intended to use his position and power to have his nephew take Yang Guoshan's place in the promotion, thus allowing his own nephew to gain promotion effortlessly.

Such behavior is undoubtedly a blatant trampling on fairness.

Faced with such injustice, Yang Guoshan felt utterly hopeless. Looking at the arrogant appearance of the Ji-surname general, his heart was filled with anger and helplessness.

Just when Yang Guoshan felt he had no way out and was about to give up, Kang Jinxingjun happened to pass by.

Seeing this, she felt a surge of justice and did not hesitate to uphold justice for Yang Guoshan.

She angrily rebuked the celestial general surnamed Ji, and with the majesty and impartiality of a star lord, punished this man who abused his power.

Ultimately, the person who abused his power received the punishment he deserved, and Yang Guoshan was able to get promoted smoothly.

At that moment, Yang Guoshan looked at Kang Jinxingjun with gratitude in his heart, and this gratitude unknowingly transformed into a deep affection.

However, Yang Guoshan was well aware of the vast difference in status between himself and Kang Jinxingjun.

One is a high and mighty celestial star lord, revered by thousands, whose every move attracts the attention of countless people; the other is an insignificant celestial soldier, unknown in the vast celestial court, like a drop in the ocean.

How could a mere celestial soldier dare to easily reveal his true feelings?
He was afraid that his feelings would cause trouble for Kang Jinxingjun, and even more afraid that he would lose the opportunity to get closer to her because of it.

He could only bury this feeling deep in his heart and carefully protect it.

After his successful promotion, Yang Guoshan resolutely decided to voluntarily transfer to the command of Kang Jinxingjun.

He hoped that through this method, he could get closer to King Kang Jin and express his respect and deepest feelings for King Kang Jin by silently protecting him.

"Heavenly Soldiers Performing Martial Arts..."

"It was nothing more than a small favor that day; you don't need to hold it against me."

Kang Jinlong raised her hand slightly, her expression indifferent, as if upholding justice for Yang Guoshan that day was merely a casual act.

Of course, that is indeed the case.

Speaking of it.

She frowned slightly, her tone carrying a hint of displeasure:
"However, some people in the Heavenly Court have gone increasingly too far in recent years."

"They used connections to get onto the battlefield where I shed blood and sacrificed my life."

"Others may tolerate it, but in my eyes, I cannot tolerate any impurities."

Kang Jinlong said calmly, her voice like the clinking of gold and jade, clear and resonant yet dignified.

"For the Star Lord, this is nothing more than a trivial matter."

"But to me, it was a great favor, which I will remember forever."

Xiao Chen bowed deeply in gratitude once more, his words sincere.

At this moment, Kang Jinlong looked at Xiao Chen more carefully, a hint of surprise flashing in her eyes:
“That’s right. I remember you were only around the True Immortal level back then, but in just one year you’ve already reached the mid-stage of the Profound Immortal level.”

Her gaze held scrutiny and curiosity.

Xiao Chen explained:
"I once accompanied General Juanlian to capture the Golden Turtle on Fangzhang Immortal Mountain, but was unfortunately caught up in it and personally experienced the fierce battle against Heaven."

"At the critical moment of life and death, I had a sudden enlightenment, and my cultivation was able to break through."

"Later, I was fortunate enough to receive a peach from the Queen Mother of the West, which enabled me to make rapid progress."

"The Queen Mother of the West's peaches of immortality..."

Kang Jinlong nodded and said:

"You've got a good opportunity."

"In that case, that guy Rolling Curtain really got a great deal."

"Although it's a pity that I've lost one of my best generals, I'm only happy that you've been promoted."

After speaking, Kang Jinlong moved gracefully to stand in front of Xiao Chen. She was very close to him, and the unique and refreshing dragon fragrance quietly lingered around Xiao Chen's nose.

Xiao Chen looked up and could clearly see the undisguised admiration in Kang Jinlong's eyes, as well as her closeness to her "old subordinate".

Xiao Chen said sincerely:
"Without the Star Lord's righteous assistance, I would not have achieved this promotion today. Now that I am going to serve under General Curtain-Raising, I will never forget the Star Lord's kindness in helping me!"

"In the future, if there is anything I can do to help you, please feel free to give the order."

Subordinates who know how to be grateful are undoubtedly liked by every superior.

Kang Jinlong smiled slightly, a rare occurrence, and said:
"You came from my command."

"Work hard over there in the future, and don't embarrass me!"

As she spoke, she slammed her hand heavily on Xiao Chen's shoulder armor, making a clanging sound.

"Yes! Your subordinate will remember the Star Lord's teachings!"

Xiao Chen said.

His bowing and gestures were perfectly natural, but his gaze was precisely fixed on the pair of golden maces on the weapon rack diagonally in front of him.

A hint of greed flickered in his eyes.

As the saying goes, "It's not the thief you should fear, but the one who has his eye on you."

The implication is that if a thief finds out your secrets and keeps eyeing your belongings, he will eventually find a way to steal them.

In fact, Kang Jinlong's pair of magic weapons, the Kanglong Golden Mace.

King Golden Horn had been coveting it for a long time.

After all, it was in Liyang Guiyu at the time.

Holding the pair of Kanglong Golden Maces, Kang Jin Xingjun lightly swung them, and in a few exchanges, he shattered the Black Tiger Demon Lord's incomparably hard acquired spiritual treasure.

The attack of the Dragon-Slaying Golden Mace was like a whirlwind sweeping away fallen leaves.

This scene greatly surprised Xiao Chen, who was present.

After all, acquired spiritual treasures are extremely rare. Their hardness is such that even a Great Luo Golden Immortal would find it difficult to destroy them without the help of some incredibly powerful magic weapons.

The physical strength of King Golden Horn was only comparable to that of a post-natal spiritual treasure.

However, it is reasonable that the Kangjin Dragon Girl's Kangjin power is so powerful.

After all, Kang Jin Xingjun is the embodiment of "Kang Jin power", and the double maces in his hands are naturally a manifestation of "Kang Jin power".

In the world of mythology, the strength of magical artifacts is often relative.

Among magical artifacts, there are also distinctions of the five elements and yin and yang, which restrain each other and have subtle relationships.

Especially among magical artifacts of the same level, the restraining relationship between them is even more obvious.

The character “亢” originally meant to resist or rival, but in later generations it was often interpreted as “抗”, meaning to confront or resist.

Kangjin means resisting metal.

Its hidden power to "resist metal" and even "break metal" symbolizes the ability to break through the shackles and limitations of metal-based magical artifacts.

All things in the world follow the principle of mutual generation and mutual restraint; this is the rule governing the operation of heaven and earth.

Wherever the "power of metal" exists in this world, there must be a "power of counteracting metal" to counter it; this is a manifestation of the natural laws of heaven and earth.

The innate supernatural power of "Kang Jinlong" is "Kang Jin Power".

The power of the Kangjin star constellation that she controls is an unparalleled divine ability that can restrain metal-attribute magical weapons.

With her unparalleled power of Kangjin, Kangjin Dragon Girl can break through many magical weapons and artifacts of the metal element.

Therefore, even though Maitreya Buddha's infinitely powerful magic weapon "Jinrao" could trap Sun Wukong, Kang Jinlong could still break through it.

Therefore, it is clear that the pair of maces that have been fused with the Kangjin Dragon Girl's Kangjin power are absolutely extraordinary treasures.

Previously, King Golden Horn had never had the chance to touch it.

Now, this may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Xiao Chen's eyes gleamed as he turned his gaze once more to the pair of gleaming maces behind Kang Jin Xingjun, his eyes flashing with a burning, greedy light as he secretly pondered:

"Such a wonderful magic weapon, now that I have seen it again, it means that it is destined to be with me, King Golden Horn."

"If Heaven gives something and you don't take it, you will suffer the consequences."

"I should try to touch it, try to get my hands on Kang Jinlong's pair of golden maces!"

Just as Xiao Chen was racking his brains, thinking of a clever way to ask Kang Jinlong for the pair of maces to play with.

Suddenly, Kang Jinlongnu's clear, cold, and majestic voice rang out:
"You have made great contributions under my command, and naturally a portion of those contributions will be attributed to me, adding to my glory."

Kang Jinlong returned to her seat gracefully, her expression calm and her tone composed.

"It is my duty, it is my duty. It is my honor to serve the Star Lord. You flatter me."

Xiao Chen responded.

In fact, this is perfectly normal in the immortal realm.

The rules of the celestial realm are not much different from those of the mortal world.

If a soldier under your command achieves meritorious service, it is the general's achievement, and the general can be rewarded and his prestige increased based on this.

If a general under his command makes a great contribution, it becomes the marshal's achievement, which allows the marshal to consolidate his position and expand his power.

If a marshal under one's command achieves unparalleled merit, it is in fact also the emperor's merit, which the emperor can use to demonstrate his wisdom and subdue the world.

Just like the Han Dynasty, Wei Qing and Huo Qubing, the two pillars of the Han Dynasty, overcame all obstacles, traversed the desert, opened up the Hexi Corridor, drove the Xiongnu out of the country, and demonstrated the power of the Han Dynasty.

But these remarkable military achievements were ultimately attributed to Emperor Wu of Han's wise leadership and ability to recognize and appoint capable people, creating a legendary tale of a ruler and his ministers.

"Um……"

Kang Jinlong nodded slightly, looked at Xiao Chen with gentle eyes, and continued:
"You were once a silver-armored celestial soldier, and heavenly generals will carefully guide you, help you cultivate, and teach you skills."

"Now that you have become a Heavenly General, I will give you some pointers and help you reach even greater heights."

"However, you will be transferred away from here as soon as you take up your post as a patrol captain under my command."

"I have received this credit from you, but I have never given you any guidance. I feel really indebted to you and feel quite guilty."

"I observe that your foundation is becoming increasingly solid and your magical power is also showing signs of improvement, with the potential for a breakthrough."

"Before you leave, I will give you some pointers on martial arts as a farewell gift."

Xiao Chen was just worried about not having a chance to get close to the pair of Dragon-Slaying Golden Maces, so upon hearing this, he was naturally overjoyed and laughed:

"I was fortunate enough to follow the Star Lord down to the mortal realm to fight against the Black Tiger Demon Lord. On that day, demonic energy soared into the sky, and the Black Tiger Demon Lord was terrifyingly powerful."

"The image of the Star Lord wielding a pair of golden maces, descending from heaven like a god, and defeating the Black Tiger Demon Lord with his heroic spirit is still vivid in my mind, as if it were happening right before my eyes, which fills me with admiration."

"Your humble servant is not talented, but I dare to ask you, Star Lord, for guidance on your mace techniques. I hope you will not hesitate to teach me."

"Mahjong technique?"

Kang Jinlong was slightly taken aback upon hearing this, then a smile appeared on her lips, a smile tinged with appreciation and approval, as she said:

"I never expected you to have such courage to challenge my mace technique. This makes me look at you in a new light."

"Then so be it. I will spar with you and let you witness the true power of my Dragon-Slaying Golden Mace."

The military has always admired brave and fearless people; courageous people are naturally popular.

Xiao Chen's actions were in line with Kang Jinlong's wishes.

The voice just fell.

Kang Jinlong slowly stood up, her red battle robe fluttering gently in the wind, like a burning flame.

Those long, jade-carved legs, barely visible beneath the red robe, revealed an even clearer, more beautiful silhouette, exuding a unique air of heroism and charm.

"Buzz!"

With a gentle gesture, the pair of golden maces on the weapon rack on one side of the hall hummed as if they had sensed their master's call and were excited, instantly falling into her hands.

"Go to the training ground and choose whatever weapon you want to use."

The words fell.

The figure of Kang Jinlongnu had already disappeared into the Kang Jin Temple, leaving only a faint afterimage.

Afterwards, his personal guards led Xiao Chen to the martial arts arena behind the Kangjin Temple.

On the training ground, the red brick ground gleamed with a cold light, and a chilling aura permeated the surroundings.

Knives, spears, swords, halberds, hammers, clubs, forks... all eighteen kinds of weapons are on display, and there is nothing else that can be found.

……

The Yang family has always been skilled with guns.

The Yang family spear technique, when wielded, is like a series of cold stars, gleaming with silver light, impervious to water, and when used in combat, it is indestructible by arrows and stones.

The three-pointed double-edged sword in Yang Jian's hand should actually be called a "three-pointed double-edged spear," which has a unique design and immense power.

Just as recorded in the poem describing Yang Jian's entrance in "Journey to the West":

"He had a refined and dignified appearance, with ears that reached his shoulders and bright eyes. He carried a crescent-shaped slingshot at his waist and a three-pointed, double-edged gun in his hand."

Yang Jian uses both the Yang family's sword and spear techniques.

The "Three-Pointed Double-Edged Spear" can chop, slash, thrust, and parry. It possesses both the fierce power of a knife and the agility of a spear. It combines the techniques of a knife with the style of a spear, making it a truly divine weapon.

……

"What weapon should we use?"

Xiao Chen stood in front of the weapon rack, his gaze sweeping around, pondering to himself.

The shelves were laden with swords, spears, halberds, axes, hooks, and forks—a diverse array of weapons, each brimming with sharpness, seemingly beckoning him to join them on the battlefield.

After lingering for a while, Xiao Chen's gaze suddenly settled on a long spear.

The gun stood silently, exuding a cold and aloof aura, as if quietly waiting for a destined person to take it down.

"This gun is extraordinary."

Xiao Chen's heart stirred, and he casually reached out and grasped the "Black Tassel Cold Iron Spear" weighing about three thousand catties in his palm.

The spearhead of this black-tasseled spear was enormous, its sharpness fully revealed.

Like a lurking beast, once it strikes, it will surely tear apart the enemy formation!

In an instant, defeat the enemy and take the first blood of the enemy general!

He achieved the greatest merit.

Looking at the gun barrel again, it was as black as ink, with a deep purple hue faintly visible within the black.

Beneath the massive spearhead, a layer of fine, long black hairs adhered, which was the black spear tassel.

The long, black tassel fluttered in the wind, like a snake flicking its tongue, both agile and eerie.

Among the components of a gun, the "tassel" plays a crucial role and should not be underestimated.

For example, Nezha's weapon, the "Red Tassel Spear," and the Black Bear Spirit's weapon, the "Black Tassel Spear," both have tassels.

This tassel is not merely for decoration; it has many practical uses.

In the heat of battle, the spear tassel can absorb blood.

This prevents the gun from becoming slippery with blood and difficult to grip.

It can also help users judge the force of the gun and control the battle situation in an instant; it can also confuse the enemy's vision, making it difficult for them to grasp the trajectory of the gun's attack, thus putting them in a passive and defensive position.

……

This "black-tasseled, cold-iron spear" exudes a faint chill, its sharpness and awe-inspiring presence palpable.

In an instant, his palm touched the gun barrel, and a deep and powerful force emanated from it, causing a surge of heroic emotion to rise in Xiao Chen's heart.

“It is indeed a fine black-tasseled spear… It is quite destined for me, King Golden Horn.”

"This black-tasseled spear should become one with me!"

"And I shall wield this black-tasseled spear and slay the Dragon Maiden!"

Xiao Chen was secretly delighted; this spear was indeed a remarkable weapon, just what he wanted.

He used his supernatural powers to replicate the black-tasseled spear, and then held it in his hand.

Pointing to Kang Jinlongnu from afar.

……

After all, Yang Guoshan had always been proficient in the "Yang Family Spear Technique," and his spear skills were quite good.

If you were to ask why Yang Guoshan knew the "Yang Family Spear Technique"?
Then let me ask you, where did the "Yang Family Spear Technique" come from?

Who passed it down?

To put it bluntly, someone like Yang Guoshan, who has "ascended to immortality," would be considered a figure like the "Ancestor of the Yang Family" in the mortal realm.

His descendants, disciples, and grand-disciples in the Yang family in the lower realm... have been passed down for countless generations.

The spear techniques, sword techniques, and martial arts manuals that celestial beings like Yang Guoshan casually left behind in the mortal realm are invaluable treasures that ordinary mortals can only dream of, enough to make a family rise to power and dominate a region.

If you call him "Little Heavenly Soldier" in the celestial realm, he might not hold it against you.

But once you leave the celestial realm, you should respectfully address him as "Ancestor of the Yang Family".

This is a matter of etiquette, and also a sign of respect for the celestial deity Yang Guoshan.

……

On the martial arts field.

The atmosphere was solemn and tense, like the pressure before a storm.

This was a private exchange only.

There were no elaborate formalities or grand displays.

Seeing that Yang Guoshan had already chosen his weapon.

"You all go down!"

Kang Jinlong was a meticulous and thoughtful woman. With a gentle wave of her hand, she decisively dismissed her personal guards.

She knew that Yang Guoshan had just been promoted to the position of Sky Patrol Captain and was riding high on his success.

If Yang Guoshan loses, he will certainly lose face.

This move to dismiss his personal guards was actually to save face for him and avoid making things difficult for him.

"Yes!"

Kang Jinlong's personal guards responded in unison, their voices perfectly synchronized, and then retreated swiftly like a receding tide.

As Kang Jinlong and her guards withdrew.

The vast training ground instantly became empty and silent.

Only Xiao Chen and Kang Jinlong stood facing each other.

(End of this chapter)