Novel Full Chapter 322: Rules of the Hidden Dragon Island!
Chapter 322: Rules of the Hidden Dragon Island!
After the flying boat fully settled onto the docking platform, the elders of the Martial Ascension Gate immediately began organizing the disciples.
There was no sign of relaxation simply because the journey had ended.
This was not Sword Saint County, nor was it land controlled by their sect. They had arrived at Hidden Dragon Island, a place where the greatest young geniuses of the Southern Martial Domain would gather.
Countless eyes would be watching every movement made by the major forces.
Even the slightest disorder could become a joke in the eyes of rival sects, while even a minor embarrassment could damage prestige.
“Maintain formation.”
“Do not wander carelessly.”
“Follow the assigned route and remain disciplined.”
Several elders gave sharp commands one after another, their voices carrying unquestionable authority.
The disciples immediately straightened their posture and arranged themselves into orderly lines. Idle conversation stopped at once, scattered movement disappeared, and the entire group quickly regained the disciplined presence expected of a great sect.
Soon, the procession of the Martial Ascension Gate began leaving the docking platform.
They walked along a broad stone avenue paved with dark jade-like slabs that had been polished smooth by countless footsteps over the years. Ancient runes were carved directly into the road, and faint streams of light glowed beneath their feet with every step they took.
The avenue felt less like a common road and more like a ceremonial path built to welcome powerful forces.
On both sides stood towering statues, grand guest residences, training courtyards, spirit gardens, and rows of flying vessels belonging to many other sects and factions.
Some ships had been forged entirely from bronze-colored metal and radiated heavy pressure. Some resembled giant beasts sleeping in silence. Others emitted icy or fiery auras that revealed their owners were no ordinary powers.
The atmosphere of Hidden Dragon Island was completely different from any ordinary city or county.
Everywhere one looked, powerful auras could be sensed.
Young cultivators with proud expressions stood beside elders and guardians. Experts crossed the sky from district to district with effortless movement, leaving trails of qi behind them. Servants and attendants moved briskly through the roads while carrying supplies, scrolls, treasures, invitations, and ceremonial items.
Even the air itself seemed denser with spiritual energy.
Li Yun walked near the front of the group.
Beside him was Peak Lord Shen Ming.
The two moved side by side, drawing many glances from disciples and elders of nearby forces. It was rare for someone of Shen Ming’s status to personally walk with a junior disciple, and that fact alone caused many people to reassess Li Yun’s importance.
Li Yun calmly observed the surroundings for a moment before speaking.
“Peak Lord, if the storm surrounding Hidden Dragon Island is so dangerous, how do ordinary people come here to watch the Hidden Dragon Tournament?”
Shen Ming glanced at him and smiled faintly.
“You noticed that quickly.”
He continued walking at an unhurried pace as he explained.
“The raging storm surrounding Hidden Dragon Island is not permanent.”
“It remains during most of the year as both a natural barrier and a method of controlling entry.”
Li Yun listened carefully without interrupting.
Shen Ming continued in a steady tone.
“Just before the Hidden Dragon Tournament begins, the storm gradually disperses.”
“Once that happens, safe routes to the island open.”
“Only then are general spectators permitted to enter.”
Li Yun raised an eyebrow slightly.
“So we were allowed in early because we are participants?”
“Correct,” Shen Ming replied with a nod.
“Only sects and factions whose disciples are competing may arrive beforehand.”
He clasped his hands behind his back and continued speaking.
“It allows competitors time to settle in, cultivate, observe opponents, and prepare their state of mind.”
“As for merchants, wandering cultivators, nobles, wealthy families, and ordinary spectators, they are only welcomed beginning the day before the tournament.”
Li Yun slowly nodded.
“So Hidden Dragon Island has unusual rules.”
Shen Ming chuckled softly.
“Not unusual.”
“Practical.”
“If everyone were allowed to arrive early, this place would descend into chaos before the tournament even began.”
Li Yun considered those words and had to admit there was reason behind them.
Still, it was obvious that Hidden Dragon Island valued order, hierarchy, and control far more than ordinary places.
As they continued forward, the group eventually reached the residential district assigned to the Martial Ascension Gate.
It was a vast compound made up of multiple connected courtyards linked by gardens, stone pathways, training grounds, meditation halls, and resting pavilions. Spirit trees swayed gently in the breeze, while streams of clear water flowed between decorative stone bridges.
Protective formations shimmered faintly around the outer walls, forming a subtle barrier that concealed and guarded the compound.
The accommodations inside were clearly divided according to status.
Outer disciples received shared courtyards with common training spaces. Inner disciples were given smaller private residences with better surroundings. True disciples naturally received the finest independent courtyards, each one located in the richest spiritual zones.
Peak Lord Shen Ming stopped near the entrance and turned toward Li Yun.
“You still have several days before the tournament arrangements are finalized.”
His eyes rested meaningfully on Li Yun as he continued.
“Use this time wisely.”
“Focus on comprehending the three new ultimate martial arts that the sect granted you.”
“With your current foundation, even a small improvement may become decisive on this stage.”
Li Yun immediately cupped his fists respectfully.
“This disciple understands.”
Shen Ming gave a satisfied nod.
Without saying more, he turned and walked toward the other elders to handle matters related to the sect’s arrival and coordination.
Li Yun, meanwhile, followed an attendant deeper into the compound toward the private courtyard assigned to him.
As he walked through the quiet stone paths lined with spirit plants and flowing water, his eyes gradually sharpened.
Hidden Dragon Island was filled with monsters of the younger generation.
If he wished to dominate this stage and rise above them all, then he could not afford to waste even a single moment.
“Time to enter a seclusion for two and a half month.” Li Yun muttered as entered the private chamber of his courtyard and began training.