Time Travel: Ancient Martial Arts Chronicles

The dawn after the bloodbath and the unknown journey

Lin Xiaoxiao, Ye Wuhen, and Bai Zhi sat slumped in the ruins of the martial arts training ground. The dust hadn't yet settled, and the air was thick with the smell of blood and burnt food. Their clothes were tattered, and the pain from their wounds pierced their bodies like sharp needles, but each of them had a look of relief and resilience at having survived.

Lin Xiaoxiao clutched the wound on her arm, grimacing in pain, yet still managed a forced smile. "Hiss... I never thought we'd survived. That remnant soul's power felt almost as powerful as the legendary peak-level evil creatures. It nearly devoured us all." She glanced at the Qiankun Ancient Martial Arts Manual in her hand. The manual seemed to come alive during the battle, growing slightly warm. "I'm lucky to have it. I feel like I've only touched upon a tiny fraction of its secrets, like I've opened the door to a new world. If I could fully master the techniques contained within, perhaps I could break through my current martial arts level."

Ye Wuhen spat out a mouthful of blood, wiped his mouth, and his gaze fell on the longsword in his hand. The runes on the sword, once gleaming, had dimmed somewhat after the confrontation with the remnant soul. "My 'Starry Demon-Breaking Sword' style is no match for that remnant soul. Although this sword technique is a high-level martial arts technique, it's still insufficient against such a powerful foe. It seems I need to find a place to practice in seclusion, to increase the power of this sword style, so that it can break through to the peak of the martial arts level." His eyes were firm, and he had a plan in mind. "I'm able to survive this time thanks to everyone. Especially you, Xiaoxiao. The method you found in the secret manual was really crucial."

Bai Zhi's face was pale as she used silver needles to treat her own wounds. Each stroke was delivered with impeccable precision, a skill honed through years of practice blending medicine and martial arts. "Hmph, don't be too happy. This was just a fluke. The power fluctuations of that remnant soul were too strange. My 'Spiritual Needle Technique,' while a mid-to-high-level martial arts technique capable of striking the enemy's vital points, has limited damage." She frowned, a flicker of worry in her eyes. "The Dark Demon Cult certainly has more methods than these. The enemies we encounter in the future will only become more powerful."

As the three of them were conversing, heavy footsteps were heard. They looked over warily, only to see a white-haired old man slowly approaching. His eyes were as deep as the abyss, as if harboring endless wisdom and secrets. He exuded an ancient and mysterious aura that made no one dare underestimate him.

Lin Xiaoxiao nervously gripped the secret manual. "Who are you?" The old man smiled faintly. His voice was low and hoarse, yet it held an inexplicable soothing power. "I am one of the guardians of this ancient martial arts world. I have been watching you for a long time. I witnessed your fight today. Your determination and courage in fighting the Dark Demon Cult are commendable, but your current strength is far from enough."

Ye Wuhen stood up. Although his figure was a little shaky, his aura remained undiminished. "Then how can we become stronger? We are not afraid of hardship." The old man nodded slightly. "Deep in this world, there are several ancient ruins. There are endless opportunities there that can help you improve your martial arts. For example, there is a 'Spiritual Abyss Valley'. The valley is filled with spiritual mist that can nourish your martial arts. If you can practice there, the 'Qiankun Ancient Martial Arts' may be promoted to a higher level, and the 'Star Devil-Breaking Sword' style and 'Spiritual Silver Needle Technique' will also achieve a qualitative leap. But those places are full of dangers. They are full of restrictions and guardian beasts from ancient times. If you are not careful, you will lose your life."

A hint of hesitation flashed across Bai Zhi's eyes, but it was quickly replaced by determination. "In order to fight against the Dark Demon Cult, we are willing to give it a try." Lin Xiaoxiao and Ye Wuhen also nodded.

The old man took out three luminous jade talismans from his sleeve and handed them to them, "This is the key to enter the ruins, and it can also save your lives at a critical moment. Set off in three days, be prepared."

(End of this chapter)

[Note: This story is purely fictional. Any similarity is purely coincidental.]