Villain: I transmigrated with Mind Control Powers

Chapter 65: Chapter 65: Tang Family Revenge

After completing his mission of hunting down a Rank 2 beast, Ye Chen returned to the Starry Sky Sect. The journey back was filled with thoughts of the battle he had faced—a fierce encounter with a Thunderclaw Tiger, known for its lightning-fast attacks and razor-sharp claws. Despite the difficulty, Ye Chen had managed to slay the beast and extract its core as proof of his success.

As an outer disciple, Ye Chen's status within the sect was modest. He was not widely known, especially not among the inner disciples who typically looked down on outer disciples with disdain. Yet, Ye Chen's quiet determination and recent achievements had begun to set him apart, even if only a few were aware.

Unaware of the greater turmoil brewing among powerful families due to the events in the secret ruins, Ye Chen's mind was focused on the immediate task at hand: submitting the proof of his mission and returning to his cultivation.

Ye Chen entered the mission hall, a grand structure where disciples of varying ranks gathered to submit their completed tasks and receive new ones. The hall was bustling with activity, the air filled with the hum of conversations. The interior was decorated with majestic carvings of legendary sect heroes, reminding all who entered of the greatness they were striving to achieve.

Ye Chen approached the mission elder, an imposing figure with a stern face, long white beard, and eyes that seemed to see through a person's very soul. The elder, dressed in dark robes embroidered with the sect's insignia, gave Ye Chen a quick glance, barely acknowledging him.

Ye Chen respectfully handed over the Thunderclaw Tiger's core, speaking with humility, "Elder, I have completed the mission and brought the core of the Rank 2 beast as proof."

The elder took the core, examining it closely. "A Thunderclaw Tiger, hmm?" he muttered. "Not bad... for an outer disciple."

His tone carried a hint of condescension, as though the feat was nothing impressive. "You will be given 500 contribution points for this" he added, tossing a small token towards Ye Chen with a dismissive gesture.

Ye Chen caught the token and bowed again, showing no sign of being offended by the elder's attitude. He had learned long ago that in the Starry Sky Sect, outer disciples were often looked down upon, and he had grown accustomed to the subtle slights. Yet, a quiet determination burned within him. One day, he would rise above these petty insults

After handing over the core to the mission elder, Ye Chen made his way back to his quarters in the outer disciples' area. The small wooden room was sparsely furnished, with a simple bed, a meditation mat, and a low table. A single window allowed sunlight to filter in, casting a warm glow on the otherwise plain walls.

He removed his storage ring and began to inspect the treasures he had collected:

Heavenly Jade Pendant: A jade pendant that radiated a calming aura, enhancing focus during cultivation.

Windwalker Boots: Lightweight boots that increased agility and speed, ideal for quick movement and evasion.

Mystic Beast Claws: Sharp claws from a Rank 2 beast, imbued with residual spiritual energy. These claws could be used in crafting or refining weapons.

Spirit Vein Condensing Pill: A valuable pill that could help a cultivator enhance their spiritual veins, aiding in their cultivation and potential breakthroughs.

Fiery Serpent Orb: A fiery orb with the essence of a Rank 2 Fiery Serpent. It could be used to refine fire-based techniques or as a potent ingredient in alchemy.

Soul Nurturing Pearl: A pearl that emitted a calming light, known for its ability to soothe the soul and aid in the recovery of spiritual power

As Ye Chen reviewed the treasures, a smile of satisfaction spread across his face. Despite missing out on some opportunities in the secret ruins, the rewards he had gained from the mission were significant. These treasures would undoubtedly strengthen his cultivation and bring him closer to his goals.

Not one to waste time, Ye Chen quickly settled onto his meditation mat, preparing to cultivate. After consuming the Spirit Vein Condensing Pill, he felt a surge of spiritual energy flow through his meridians, refining and expanding them. The energy within him began to circulate faster and more powerfully, pushing him toward a breakthrough.

Time seemed to blur as Ye Chen entered a deep state of meditation, focusing entirely on his cultivation. Hours passed, and the energy within him continued to build, reaching a critical point.

Suddenly, with a powerful surge, Ye Chen's spiritual energy condensed and transformed, advancing him from the Foundation Establishment 8th Stage to the Core Formation 5th Stage.

The breakthrough was accompanied by a powerful aura that radiated from Ye Chen's body, filling the room with a palpable energy.

"Core Formation, 5th Stage!" Ye Chen exclaimed as he opened his eyes, feeling the newfound strength coursing through his veins.

His spiritual energy had become denser, and his overall power had increased significantly. "Such rapid progress… This is incredible!"

Later that day, Ye Chen decided to visit the training grounds to test his new Windwalker Boots. This training ground required you to pay Contribution Points in order to access the facilities. But it has many amenities due to which it was favoured by the inner disciples.

As he approached, he noticed a small group of inner disciples gathered around one of the sparring arenas. Their robes, embroidered with golden threads, marked them as members of the sect's elite.

Among them was Liu Chang, a tall and well-built inner disciple with sharp features and a perpetual sneer on his face. His dark hair was tied back in a sleek ponytail, and his eyes glinted with arrogance. Liu Chang had a reputation for being condescending, especially towards outer disciples, whom he viewed as inferior.

As Ye Chen approached, Liu Chang's gaze fell upon him, and his expression twisted into one of disgust. "Look who it is," Liu Chang drawled loudly, ensuring that everyone around could hear. "An outer disciple who thinks he's worthy of training alongside us. What's the matter, Ye Chen? Did you get lost on your way to the servant's quarters?"

The other disciples chuckled at Liu Chang's words, their laughter filled with mockery. Ye Chen, however, remained calm, his expression unreadable. He had faced worse insults in the past, and he had no intention of backing down now.

"I'm here to train, just like everyone else," Ye Chen replied evenly. "The training grounds are open to all disciples, or have the rules changed?"

Liu Chang's sneer deepened. "You think you can compete with us? Just because you managed to complete a mission doesn't mean you're on our level. How about I show you what real strength looks like?"

The challenge in Liu Chang's voice was clear, and the crowd of disciples grew silent, eager to see how this would play out. Ye Chen knew that refusing would only invite further ridicule, but he also saw an opportunity to prove himself.

"Very well," Ye Chen agreed, stepping into the sparring arena. "Let's see if your strength matches your arrogance."

Liu Chang's expression darkened as he stepped into the arena. "You'll regret that," he hissed, drawing his sword. The blade gleamed in the sunlight, and Liu Chang wasted no time, launching himself at Ye Chen with a powerful strike.

Ye Chen activated his Windwalker Boots, dodging Liu Chang's attack with ease. He moved swiftly, almost as if he were gliding on air, his new boots enhancing his speed. Liu Chang's sword cut through empty air, and the inner disciple's eyes narrowed in surprise.

"You're quick, I'll give you that," Liu Chang sneered, "but let's see if you can keep dodging forever!"

He unleashed a series of rapid strikes, each one faster and more precise than the last. But Ye Chen was not just dodging; he was analyzing Liu Chang's movements, looking for weaknesses. As Liu Chang pressed his attack, Ye Chen saw his opening—a slight hesitation in Liu Chang's strikes that left his side vulnerable.

Seizing the moment, Ye Chen countered with a swift strike of his own, his sword flashing as it struck Liu Chang's exposed side. The blow wasn't fatal, but it was enough to knock Liu Chang off balance. He stumbled, his confident smirk faltering as he realized he had underestimated his opponent.

"How…?" Liu Chang stammered, shock evident in his voice.

Ye Chen didn't give him time to recover. He followed up with a series of precise strikes, forcing Liu Chang to retreat. The inner disciple, who had been so sure of his victory, was now on the defensive, his confidence shattered.

The crowd watched In stunned silence as Ye Chen delivered a final blow, disarming Liu Chang and sending him crashing to the ground. The once-smug inner disciple lay defeated, his pride in tatters.

Ye Chen sheathed his sword and looked down at Liu Chang with calm indifference. "Strength isn't just about power," he said quietly. "It's about knowing when to strike."

Liu Chang could only grit his teeth in humiliation as Ye Chen walked away, leaving the crowd to whisper in amazement. Word of Ye Chen's victory would soon spread throughout the sect, marking him as a rising star—a once-overlooked outer disciple who had proven that even the most underestimated could rise to greatness.

On the other hand, The Tang Family' spies had confirmed that Ye Chen had many of those items for which they were fighting.

Tang Family members were consumed by rage upon learning that an obscure outer disciple from the Starry Sky Sect had obtained the treasures they had painstakingly sought in the secret ruins. To them, Ye Chen was an insignificant insect who had dared to steal what was rightfully theirs. Such insolence could not be tolerated.

The Tang family had conducted a meeting and it was decided to eliminate Ye Chen and all people associated with him. This was meant to set an example that anyone who tries to covet what is there's will face repercussions.

The Shadow Blades, were the Tang Family's elite assassins, feared throughout the land for their lethal skill and unwavering loyalty. Swiftly and silently, they carried out the grim orders.

In a remote village nestled among rolling hills, an elderly couple who had lovingly raised Ye Chen as their own went about their simple lives, unaware of the danger approaching. Under the cloak of darkness, the Shadow Blades descended upon them. Flames engulfed their humble home, and their lives were extinguished without mercy or hesitation.

The assassins left no witnesses, no evidence—only ashes and silence.

Simultaneously, other operatives were stationed strategically around the Starry Sky Sect, patiently awaiting the moment Ye Chen would venture beyond its boundaries. Their orders were clear: eliminate Ye Chen and retrieve any treasures he possessed. The Tang Family sought not just revenge, but also to reclaim and assert their dominance.

Unaware of the peril closing in around him, Ye Chen continued his daily routine within the Starry Sky Sect, dedicated to honing his skills and rising above his current station. Despite his recent victory over an inner disciple, many within the sect still viewed him with disdain, unable to accept that an outer disciple could possess such talent.

One afternoon, Ye Chen made his way to the sect's expansive Celestial Library , a vast repository of knowledge containing countless scrolls and manuals on cultivation techniques, history, and martial arts. For Ye Chen, the library was a sanctuary—a place where he could immerse himself in study and strive to improve.

As he browsed through the dusty shelves, selecting a few scrolls that caught his interest, a group of inner disciples entered the library. Among them was Zhao Hui, a notoriously arrogant and influential disciple known for his contempt towards those he deemed inferior. Spotting Ye Chen, Zhao Hui's eyes gleamed with malicious intent.

"Well, look who we have here," Zhao Hui sneered loudly, drawing the attention of others in the library. "Can you even read these texts, Ye Chen? Or are you just here to admire the pretty symbols?"

The accompanying disciples chuckled derisively, their laughter echoing through the hallowed halls. Ye Chen remained calm, refusing to rise to the bait. He clutched the scrolls tighter and attempted to move past them, but Zhao Hui stepped into his path, blocking his way.

"What's the hurry?" Zhao Hui continued, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Perhaps you should stick to basic manuals suited for your lowly status. Leave the advanced studies to those of us who can actually comprehend them."

Before Ye Chen could respond, a clear and melodious voice interrupted the mockery.

"Is this how inner disciples are supposed to conduct themselves? Bullying others in a place of learning?"

All eyes turned towards the source of the voice. Standing gracefully between the towering shelves was Su Ling, one of the most esteemed inner disciples of the Starry Sky Sect. Her presence commanded immediate attention and respect.

Su Ling was a vision of ethereal beauty and dignified elegance. She possessed a serene countenance that exuded both kindness and quiet strength. Her long, raven-black hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall, shimmering softly under the library's lantern light.

Delicate features graced her face—a pair of luminous almond-shaped eyes the color of jade, framed by long, dark lashes; a small, perfectly shaped nose; and lips that curved naturally into a gentle smile.

She wore flowing robes of pristine white, embroidered with intricate silver patterns that seemed to dance across the fabric, reflecting her noble status within the sect. A slender jade pendant hung around her neck, resting just above her heart, adding a touch of understated elegance to her attire.

Beyond her stunning appearance, Su Ling was renowned for her exceptional talent and profound mastery of cultivation arts. Her comprehension and skill had earned her respect and admiration from both peers and elders alike. Yet, despite her high standing, she remained humble and compassionate, often extending kindness to those less fortunate.

Zhao Hui's confident façade faltered slightly at Su Ling's intervention. He cleared his throat, attempting to maintain his composure. "Senior Sister Su Ling, we were merely engaging in some friendly banter. No harm intended."

Su Ling's gaze hardened, and a subtle but palpable aura of authority emanated from her. "Friendly banter should not involve humiliation or disrespect. The Celestial Library is a place for all disciples to learn and grow, regardless of their rank. I suggest you focus on your own studies and allow others to do the same."

The chastised inner disciples exchanged uneasy glances before Zhao Hui muttered a reluctant apology. "Of course, Senior Sister. Our apologies."

With that, Zhao Hui and his entourage hurriedly retreated deeper into the library, leaving Ye Chen and Su Ling alone amidst the rows of ancient texts.

Ye Chen, still processing the unexpected intervention, turned to Su Ling and bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Senior Sister Su Ling. I appreciate your help."

Su Ling's expression softened into a warm smile. "There's no need to thank me. Everyone deserves respect, and talent is not confined by titles or ranks. I've heard about your recent achievements, Ye Chen. You're making remarkable progress."

A hint of surprise flickered across Ye Chen's face. He hadn't realized that someone of Su Ling's stature would know of him, let alone acknowledge his efforts.

"You flatter me, Senior Sister," he replied humbly. "I still have a long way to go and much to learn."

Su Ling's eyes sparkled with genuine interest. "That kind of attitude will take you far. If you ever need guidance or assistance, feel free to seek me out."

The offer left Ye Chen momentarily speechless. He felt a surge of inspiration and gratitude welling up inside him. Managing to regain his composure, he nodded earnestly. "I will. Thank you for your kindness."

Su Ling gave a final encouraging smile before turning to leave, her graceful steps barely making a sound on the polished wooden floor. As she departed, the faint scent of jasmine lingered in the air, imprinting the moment indelibly in Ye Chen's memory.

Left alone amidst the towering shelves of the library, Ye Chen felt his heart pounding with a mixture of admiration and resolve. Su Ling's intervention had not only saved him from humiliation but had also ignited a profound motivation within him.

He replayed the encounter in his mind, recalling the elegance and confidence with which Su Ling had handled the situation. Her beauty was undeniable, but it was her strength of character and graciousness that truly captivated him.

In that moment, Ye Chen made a silent vow to himself: he would cultivate diligently and rise through the ranks, striving to become someone worthy of standing by Su Ling's side. She had shown him kindness when few others would, and he was determined to prove himself, not just to the sect but also to her.

In his heart, he held a deep affection for her, dreaming of a future where they could walk side by side as equals.